Story from Kenneth AFOR, Lagos
Football enthusiasts, fans and supporters of Lionel Messi and Barcelona were shocked at the news that the Argentina international has parted ways with his club Thursday night.
According to a renowned sports journalist Fabrizio Romano in a post on his Facebook page Thursday night Barcelona were unable to renew Messi’s contract which could see him stay at the club till June 2026 due to ‘La Liga financial rules’.
READ ALSO: End Of An Era: Barcelona announce Lionel Messi’s departure
Although the club did not state categorically state what the rules are.
The rules have also prevented the club from making further signings at the moment for now.
According to Romano, both the club Messi had scheduled to make an announcement for the contract renewal earlier on Thursday but things turned out of favour for the two parties after La Liga contacted Barcelona.
He wrote, “Lionel Messi was in Barcelona yesterday with his father Jorge to sign the contract until June 2026.
“There was no tension or problem about team, market strategies or Cristian Romero deal… total verbal agreement was reached with Messi for weeks.
“Barcelona also had an official statement and announcement scheduled on Thursday evening to celebrate Leo Messi signing until 2026.
“After further contacts with La Liga during the day, Barcelona told Messi they’re blocked by La Liga financial rules & they’re not able/allowed to sign his contract now.
“Barcelona will have issues also with other players to be registered after La Liga rules.
“Leo Messi appreciated Laporta’s honesty during the meeting and he was shocked after the forced decision by Barça.”
However, there are indications that Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is making moves to sign the Argentina international.
“Paris Saint-Germain has already started direct contacts with Messi after they had many approaches turned down months ago to sign Leo… because his only priority was Barça,” Romano added.
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