Published on : Modified :
According to several Argentinian and Spanish media, Lionel Messi no longer wants to play with his club, FC Barcelona. The Argentine has reportedly told Barca management his decision to apply a clause in his contract that would allow him to walk away freely. For the Catalan club, it is a huge blow in addition.
Earthquake on the football planet! This Tuesday, August 25, the Argentine and Spanish sports press is in turmoil. The newspaper Ole and the chain TyC Sports (Argentina), the media Brand and Sports world (Spain), all are unanimous: Lionel Messi would have officially asked the management of FC Barcelona to let him go.
Messi would like to activate his departure clause, 20 years after his arrival
The 33-year-old Argentinian would like to put an end to an adventure that began in 2000 in Catalonia. He was only 13 when he arrived at the FC Barcelona training center. In 2004, at age 17, he made his professional debut with the blaugrana jersey on his shoulders. Since then, Lionel Messi has become one of the best players in football history, notably winning six times the Ballon d’Or. This year 2020 will perhaps mark the end of an era.
At the end of 2017, the striker extended his contract with Barça until 2021. He therefore still has a year of contract to honor. However, Leo Messi is said to have a clause that would allow him to leave the free club at the end of each season. It is this clause that he intends to apply. Rumors on this subject had already been circulating for a few days. But it may not be that simple, because according to the Argentinian and Spanish press, his contract specifies that this option is only valid until June 1. A legal battle could take place between the top scorer in Barça history and its leaders.
The humiliation against Bayern (8-2) for final appearance?
It’s hard to imagine FC Barcelona without its Argentinian gem, as it has shone over the past 15 years and led its team to the top. However, this is the scenario that risks becoming reality in a few days. Carles Puyol, former captain and former teammate of Lionel Messi, has already spoken on Twitter. ” Respect and admiration, Leo. All my support my friend ”He wrote. A message that looks like a farewell.
Respect and admiration, Leo. All my support, friend.
Carles Puyol (@ Carles5puyol) August 25, 2020
For several seasons, Barça has been navigating troubled waters: Neymar’s departure from PSG in 2017, internal tensions within the management, chronic instability at the post of coach (Ronald Koeman has just replaced Quique Setien), failed transfers, European disillusions in series … the last humiliation suffered against Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals of the “Final 8” of the Champions League on August 14 in Lisbon (8-2), hurt badly. It could also be the last appearance of legend Messi with Barcelona.
.
