Argentine star Lionel Messi will not sign a new contract with Barcelona, concluding a partnership that lasted over 20 years, as announced by the Catalan club on Thursday. This shocking development concerning one of the most prominent players in football history could drastically alter the transfer market before Messi's next destination is known.
Barcelona issued a statement saying, "Despite reaching an agreement between FC Barcelona and Leo Messi, it cannot be officially ratified due to economic and structural obstacles (Spanish league regulations)." The statement continues, "Given this situation, Lionel Messi will not remain with Barcelona. Both parties deeply regret that the wishes of the player and the club could not be fulfilled."
Barcelona sincerely wishes to thank the player for his contributions to the institution and wishes him the best in his personal and professional life. With Messi's contract ending on June 30, he is now free to join any club of his choice.
The news came as a surprise because Spanish newspapers were expecting an announcement regarding Barcelona renewing the contract of the 34-year-old Argentine star after both parties had agreed on all matters. The Catalan club made significant efforts to retain Messi's services after a disappointing season in which they only won the Copa del Rey, especially since Messi had announced his desire to leave in the summer of 2020 before retracting his decision to avoid a legal dispute with the club. However, the enormous financial difficulties faced by Barcelona to comply with the Spanish league’s financial fair play regulations prevented the completion of the deal, despite Messi's willingness to accept half his salary and extend his contract for an additional five years.
Messi, who won his first international title by leading Argentina to win the Copa America with a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the final last month at the Maracanã Stadium, became the player with the most appearances for Barcelona last season, totaling 767 and surpassing former playmaker Xavi. This shocking development concerning one of the most prominent players in football history could drastically alter the transfer market before Messi's next destination is known.
