Now, why would someone, together with his whole family, suddenly decide to take French language lessons out of the blue when there’s no apparent need to do such a strange thing? Why the sudden obsession? Unless of course it’s all part of a pre-planned, well-orchestrated move in anticipation of a relocation exercise for the entire family.
And not unless you also happen to be Lionel Messi, and you and your entire family are learning French to gear up for a longer term stay in France and not just for the quick summer break. Especially when it’s already all over the news for some time now that Paris Saint-Germain, the Ligue 1 juggernauts themselves, are not trying too hard to keep their interest in the Barcelona talisman under wraps.
It’s not even about reading the tea leaves but already a very indicative sign sign that the Argentine star is most likely opting for a move to the Parisien club when his contract at Barcelona ends this summer, according to journalist Geoffroy Garetier.
Speaking on Canal+ show ‘The Late Football Club’, this is football expert Garetier’s views ( translated from French into English below):
“The info I have right now is that Lionel Messi and his whole family, wife and children, are taking French lessons.
“Why would they take French lessons if it is to sign for Manchester City? It would make no sense. I trust the source, it is in my eyes very reliable.
“In my opinion, this can only lead to the fact that Messi will leave Barcelona.”
“[Barcelona] can no longer bear Messi’s salary, which is too large, €80 million, €90 million,” he added.
“His wife will also have a predominant word to decide his destination. However, between PSG and Manchester, it is obvious that Paris holds the [advantage]. So for French classes, enrolling in school, to integrate into everyday life, it makes sense to me.”
Messi, 33, will be out of contract at Barcelona at the end of June and he could be intent on completing the move away from the Nou Camp which he was forced to abandon last summer due to complications then.
However, at that time the apparent destination was supposed to be Manchester City to reunite with his former Barcelona manager and mentor Pep Guardiola. Now the new twist in the plot points to French giants PSG as the Parisien Ligue 1 champs are viewed as the Argentina star’s most likely port of disembarkation.
PSG director Leonardo last week stoked rumors that the club would make a move for the six-time Ballon d’Or winner by admitting that a player of Messi’s caliber “would always be on their list.”
Speaking on French television, journalist Garetier added that obvious financial issues at the Catalan club could also mean they are now less reluctant to let Messi leave than they were previously.
“[Barcelona] can no longer bear Messi’s salary, which is too large, €80 million, €90 million,” he added.
“His wife will also have a predominant word to decide his destination. However, between PSG and Manchester, it is obvious that Paris holds the [advantage]. So for French classes, enrolling in school, to integrate into everyday life, it makes sense to me.”
Aside from the Paris lifestyle, PSG also boast the added attraction of a link-up with former Barcelona teammate Neymar as well as an Argentine manager, Mauricio Pochettino.
Speaking recently, Messi’s international teammate and PSG midfielder Leandro Paredes said it was the club’s “responsibility” to try to persuade Messi to join this summer.