The reason why Paris Saint-Germain superstar, Lionel Messi, travelled to Saudi Arabia on Monday has been revealed.

Messi caused a bit of a stir as he travelled to Saudi Arabia just a day after PSG suffered a shock 3-1 defeat at home against Lorient in Ligue 1 on Sunday.

According to RMCSport, Messi’s visit might be part of his contract with the Saudi Arabian government as the country’s tourism ambassador.

The Argentina World Cup winner signed a contract with them in 2022.

The former Barcelona captain had surprised his followers on Instagram with a post promoting tourism in Saudi Arabia.

The timing of his message is interesting as the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has been heavily linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, SPL, recently.

Messi’s caption on the Instagram post read: “Who thought Saudi has so much green? I love to explore its unexpected wonders whenever I can.”

Meanwhile, the Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, wrote on Twitter on Monday as he welcomed Messi and his family to the country for a vacation.

Al-Khateeb wrote on Twitter: “I am happy to welcome Saudi Tourism Ambassador Lionel #Messi and his family on his second vacation in Saudi. We are happy to share our authentic Saudi welcome with you all #WelcomeMessi.”