After leaving Barcelona following 21 amazing years, Lionel Messi has sealed a remarkable two-year deal with Paris Saint-Germain.
The Argentina captain became a free agent after his contract with Barcelona expired this summer. The club was expected to re-sign him after positive initial discussion between all parties, but LaLiga's financial constraints rendered it impossible.
Messi travelled from Spain to France on Tuesday, August 10 to sign a two-year contract that includes a one-year extension option and gives the forward a net salary of over €35 million (£29.6 million) with bonuses factored in.
According to Mail Online, Messi will earn £1 million per week and will wear the number 30 shirt, which was his first at Barcelona.
PSG stated on twitter; “Paris Saint-Germain is happy to announce the acquisition of Leo Messi on a two-year contract with a third-year option.” The six-time Ballon d'Or winner is rightfully regarded as a great legend of the game and a true inspiration for football fans of all ages.
“The signing of Leo strengthens Paris Saint-Germain’s aspirations as well as providing the club's ardent supporters with not just an extraordinarily skilled squad, but also spectacular football moments in the coming years.”
'I am pleased to begin a new chapter of my career with Paris Saint-Germain,' Messi said after completing his transfer. Everything about the club aligns with my football goals. I'm well aware of the squad's and coaching staff's abilities. I'm determined to contribute to the creation of something exceptional for the club and its supporters.'
The Argentina superstar will be officially introduced as a Paris Saint-Germain player on Wednesday, August 11.
Messi joined Barcelona as a 15-year-old and made his senior debut in 2004 at the age of 16; over the course of his 21-year career, he has appeared 778 times for the club.
Messi became Barcelona's all-time leading scorer during that span, with 672 goals, including 120 Champions League goals and a record 474 LaLiga goals. He also won 10 LaLiga titles, four Champions Leagues, and seven Copa del Reys during his career.
Messi has won the European Golden Shoe title for top scorer on six occasions, owing to his exceptional contributions.