The most coveted free agent in the world is officially off the market. Lionel Messi signed a two-year deal on Tuesday with French side Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), bringing to an end his long-term association with Spanish giants FC Barcelona.
Messi arrived in Paris early Tuesday to much fanfare after announcing his exit from FC Barcelona in an emotional news conference this past weekend. He was cheered on in the airport by an army of supporters eager to see him don the Parisian club's colors.
Messi lands huge deal with PSG after whirlwind transfer saga
They won't have to wait much longer with Messi finally putting pen to paper on a two-year contract with PSG, which also contains a player option for a third year. Messi was all smiles when he signed the deal alongside club president and owner Nasser al-Khelaifi, a completely different scene from the one witnessed days earlier at the Nou Camp when he shed tears while bidding farewell to his former club.
As expected, Messi's contract with PSG was a huge one, with the Argentina captain netting a net salary worth around $40 million a year with bonuses factored in. Messi deserves that mammoth deal given his stature as arguably the world's best soccer player.
❤️ #PSGxMESSI 💙
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) August 10, 2021
🛒 https://t.co/Y0Ld6bgt3F pic.twitter.com/ydcuurK2AP
The 34-year-old is still at the top of his game, leading Argentina to the 2021 Copa America title for his first international trophy last month. Last season, he was superb for Barcelona, scoring 30 goals and dishing out nine assists in 35 La Liga matches played.
Messi released a statement after the contract signing, saying he was excited to begin a new chapter of his career at PSG and that the club and its vision are in perfect harmony with his ambitions.
Al-Khelaifi was delighted with the club's acquisition of Messi, saying he is proud to welcome him and his family to Paris and that the addition continues a very successful transfer window for PSG.
Related Article: Barcelona Stars Past and Present Pay Tribute to Soccer Icon Lionel Messi After Shock Exit
Messi joins Sergio Ramos as PSG's marquee signings this offseason
PSG also signed former Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos to bolster their backline before Messi's signing. It's incredible to think that after waging 16 years of battles in the Gran Clasico, Messi and Ramos will now team up at Parc des Princes.
The two players have been brought in to help PSG win the Champions League, the only trophy missing in their illustrious trophy cabinet. Messi and Ramos have vast experience in that prestigious tournament, winning the European title eight times between them during their stints in Real Madrid and Barcelona.
That dream is coming closer to reality, with PSG now boasting of one of the best-attacking lineups in the history of the sport. Messi, who will wear No. 30 for PSG next season, will be lining up alongside Brazilian superstar Neymar and French World Cup hero Kylian Mbappe to form a lethal attacking trio.
Argentina Captain to Sport No. 30 in His PSG Jersey
Considering that Neymar wears jersey No. 10 in PSG, fans knew there were bound to be changes in the jersey numbers. According to French outlet bmftv.com, Neymar had offered to give up the No. 10, but Messi decided to go for No. 30, which is also a significant number for the football star.
Messi debuted in FC Barcelona with No. 30, then switched to No. 19 in 2006. However, in 2008, he donned jersey No. 10 in honor of Ronaldinho, who had then left Barca.
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