LIONEL MESSI has been dealt a two-week suspension by his current club Paris Saint-Germain.
The football legend’s future at the French giants has been up in the air in recent months.
Lionel Messi in action for PSG during their 3-1 loss to LorientREUTERS
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s contract with PSG expires at the end of the season.
And the Parisians are reportedly choosing not to offer the Argentinan a new deal at the Parc des Princes.
Why has Messi been suspended by PSG?
The World Cup winner has been banned by the Ligue 1 champions for an untheorized trip to Saudi Arabia.
He reportedly did ask PSG representatives for permission to go on the trip to the Middle East.
But the club’s hierarchy did not give the former Barcelona man permission meaning he will be fined two weeks’ wages and suspended for two games.
Messi’s two-gam ban will mean he will miss PSG’s matches against Troyes and Ajaccio.
The French giants are currently five points clear at the top of Ligue 1 with five games remaining.
What did the tourism minister of Saudi Arabia tweet about Lionel Messi’s visit?
Ahmed Al-Khateeb (tourism minister of Saudi Arabia) tweeted: “I am happy to welcome Messi and his family to Saudi to enjoy the magical tourist destinations and authentic experiences,”
“We welcome visitors from all around the world to experience a unique trip to Saudi Arabia and its hospitality.”
Lionel Messi pictured during his trip to Saudi ArabiaPA
Lionel Messi and family on their trip to Saudi ArabiaPA
The forward works as an ambassador for the country’s tourism board.
He agreed a huge £25million deal to promote Saudi Arabia last May but had only visited once prior to this week.
Messi shared a picture of his trip to the Gulf State on Instagram alongside a caption that reads: “Who thought Saudi has so much green?
“I love to explore its unexpected wonders whenever I can. #visitsaudi.”
Saudi side Al Hilal have also been linked with a mind-boggling £350million-a-year move for Messi.