The internet broke last week at the emergence of the news of a burofax sent to the club hierarchy containing Lionel Messi’s intention to leave Barcelona after two decades of his stay at the Catalan club, this caused a wild protest at the club’s office and the fans demanded the prompt resignation of the already unsettled board as a result of various inexplicable transfers and dealings in the club.

Questions began to run on every football fan’s mind on which club will the Argentine represent next season while rumor has it that many European giants are interested in the services of Leo. The club president, Josep Maria Bartomeu however refused to agree with Messi and his Agent cum father , Jorge messi on Messi’s right to leave the club for free at the end of each season claiming the clause ended on June 30th . It was clear that no team can afford to pay the astronomical 700m euros release clause placed on the six time Balon D’or winner due to the financial fair play rule hence the likes of Manchester city were hindered on landing the superstar .

In an interview with Goal, Leo after some weeks long silence talked about the failure of the board on sporting project and his family unwillingness to leave the city when he told them his intention . In his words , Leo labeled the present administration a “disaster” and will never go to court for resolution ;
“The whole family began crying my children did not want to leave Barcelona,nor did they want to change schools.”

“But I looked further afield and I want to compete at the highest level, win titles,compete in the Champions League. You can win or lose in it, because it is very difficult, but you have to compete.”
“The truth is that there is no project at this club. They just plug holes as and when things happen. I would never go for a war against the club of my life. That’s why I’m staying”.

With that been said,it is obvious Lionel Messi will be staying for at least a season more under the new coaching of Ronald Koeman and his assistants but probably without his close friends Suarez and Vidal who are close to joining Juventus and Inter respectively following a squad rejuvenation as a result of the 8-2 humiliation by Bayern Munich in the UEFA champions league .

Do you think Messi’s actions are justified and following the club’s refusal to let him go, do you think Messi will still be committed to the club as he promised?

Let’s have your thoughts guys in the comment section !!!