It has now been confirmed Lionel Messi will officially exit Barcelona after failing to agree a new contract with the club.
A statement on the club’s official site reads: “Despite having reached an agreement between FC Barcelona and Leo Messi and with the clear intention of both parties to sign a new contract today, it cannot be formalized due to economic and structural obstacles (Spanish LaLiga regulations).
“Given this situation, Lionel Messi will not continue to be linked to FC Barcelona. Both parties deeply regret that the wishes of both the player and the Club cannot finally be fulfilled.
“Barça would like to thank with all its heart the player’s contribution to the enhancement of the institution and wishes him the best in his personal and professional life.”
The football star’s three-year contract at Barcelona expired on 1st July and he had been in talks with the club to renew until today.
Messi’s salary is thought to be the highest of any athlete in history (£492 million over four seasons) so not many clubs are able to afford Messi.
However, back in July, it was reported that the likes of Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain were keeping an eye on his contractual situation so they could be in a bidding war very soon.
Where do you think Messi should go next?
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