Argentine star Lionel Messi has joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), two days after he confirmed his exit from Barcelona.
The 34-year-old La Albiceleste skipper signed a two-year deal, the club said on Tuesday. Messi has an option of extending his deal with the French outfit.
Messi will wear the number 30 as revealed in a video by the club, the number he had when he began his professional career at Barcelona between 2004-2006.
“I am excited to begin a new chapter of my career at Paris Saint-Germain,” said Messi in a statement on the club’s website.
The Abiceleste skipper was expected to pen a five-year contract extension with Barcelona after the expiration of his deal. But on Thursday, the Spanish side said Messi will be leaving the club he joined at 13, citing “financial and structural obstacles.”
“As a result of this situation, Messi shall not be staying on at FC Barcelona,” the club explained while thanking the player for his services to the team.
“Both parties deeply regret that the wishes of the player and the club will ultimately not be fulfilled.”
Messi confirmed his exit from Barcelona in a tearful press conference on Sunday.
“After 21 years I am leaving with my three Catalan Argentine children,” said Messi, who won 10 league titles with the club.
“I gave everything for this club from the first day that I arrived right to the last. I never imagined having to say goodbye.
“In recent days I have given lots of thought to what I can say and truth to tell I can’t think of anything.
“This is really difficult for me after so many years spent here — my entire life. I’m not ready for this,” he told a packed conference at the club as thousands of fans milled outside.
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