Lionel Messi left Paris Saint-Germain training early on Thursday due to a groin injury, contrary to reports, and head coach Christophe Galtier has reaffirmed that talks are underway between player and club to extend his stay in Paris.
Messi is out of contract at the end of the season, but PSG are understandably keen to tie him down to a longer stay after his impressive haul of 13 goals and as many assists in the current Ligue 1 Uber Eats campaign.
There were multiple reports that Messi left training early on Thursday after a fall-out with Galtier, but the player simply had an injury that needed to be managed. The head coach hopes he stays.
"I know that Leo, the football management and the president [Nasser al-Khelaïfi] talk a lot to each other," he said ahead of PSG's meeting with Stade Rennais FC on Sunday. "If he's to stay, it'll be according to the desires of all parties.
"He's happy in the dressing room. He's scored 18 goals and registered 17 assists [in all competitions]. He's been decisive very often. He's an important player through his behaviour in the dressing room."
It is unclear if Messi will play against Rennes, but Neymar Jr, Sergio Ramos and Presnel Kimpembe are among those definitely on the sidelines.
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