Paris Saint-Germain have lost a million followers on Instagram in the wake of Lionel Messi's exit from the Ligue 1 giants.
Messi has spent two years at the Parc des Princes, winning two successive French titles. But his final campaign has been dogged by supporter unrest, with the Argentine being booed as he went up to claim his winner's medal on Saturday evening.
Now, he is leaving PSG, with a return to Barcelona or a move to Saudi Arabia both mooted as possible next destinations. And it appears that PSG are already feeling the weight of the superstar's loss, having confirmed his departure in the lead up to Saturday's defeat to Clermont.
That has come from their Instagram account, with the club's following on the social media platform dropping by one million. That loss in followers came after the Clermont game, with PSG previously boasting 69.9million followers.
That has now dropped to 68.9m since Saturday evening's game, during which Messi was given a hostile farewell from the home crowd. Those who greeted Messi with boos were slammed by boss Christophe Galtier, who himself appears on his way out of PSG.
"Concerning Leo, I find that the whistles were very harsh. Like the season, there have been good periods, and less good periods. Maybe in a few weeks, I will find the origin of Leo's treatment, because he has always been well-behaved," Galtier said.
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"He is the greatest player in the history of football. He has impressive statistics, in a season where he played a lot. Leo had a great season. I dare to hope that people will analyze it coldly, with a little more lucidity.
"I reserve my analyses for my management, my president--any experience is enriching. Coaching is a tough job. When I arrived in Paris, someone told me: 'The higher you are, the stronger the blows.'
"The second part of the season was very difficult. Sometimes, lightning fell on me, but I finish this season with a lot of pride. After that season, I am now another man and another coach."
Messi was given a nice farewell by fellow superstar Neymar, who paid tribute to the World Cup winner. The Brazilian wrote on Instagram: "Brother... it didn't turn out as we thought but we tried everything. It was a pleasure to share 2 more years with you. Good luck in your new stage and be happy. I love you."
It was a message that was warmly greeted by Messi, who penned an emotional reply back to his now-former team-mate. He wished Neymar the best for the future, with the Brazilian's own career at PSG uncertain.
Messi wrote: "Thanks Ney! Beyond all that remains, that we enjoyed playing together and sharing the day to day. I wish you all the best. You're a beautiful person and that's all that matters at the end. I love you so much."
