PSG lose over 1.5m Instagram followers following Messi’s departure

Paris Saint-Germain has lost over 1.5 million Instagram followers since Lionel Messi (35) announced his departure from the club this summer.

PSG announced the departure of the former Barcelona forward ahead of Saturday night’s 3-2 loss to Clermont Foot. Regardless of the outcome, Les Parisiens have won Ligue 1 for the second time in a row. Messi was booed both during the game and during the title celebrations. His next destination is unknown.

While the sporting impact of the Argentinian world champion’s departure is unknown, the club’s social media channels are already feeling the effects. The club has already lost over 1.5 million Instagram followers. PSG had 70.4 million followers on Saturday night, around the time of the announcement; currently, they have 68.9 million. The club has also lost tens of thousands of followers on Twitter, though the impact of Messi’s leaving hasn’t been as severe as it has been on Instagram.