After a frantic couple of weeks, Barcelona fans can breath easy once again. Messi has announced that he is staying in an interview, saying: “I wasn’t happy and I wanted to leave. I have not been allowed in any way and I will stay at the club so as to not get into any legal dispute. The management of the club led by Bartomeu is a disaster.”
The forward then went onto say, speaking to Goal: “Bartomeu told me that the only possible way to leave was to pay the £700 million release clause- that’s impossible. But at the end of the season, the same Bartomeu said it was my decision.. he didn’t keep his promise.
“When I communicated my wish to leave to my wife, it was a brutal drama. The whole family began crying, my children did not want to leave Barcelona. But I’ve been telling the president & the club that I want to leave all year long.”
Messi to Stay at Barcelona
A Summer of What Could Have Been
Many clubs around the world were left dreaming of securing the signing of Messi when reports emerged of his willingness to leave. Barcelona, however, much like most years in recent times, have crushed any dreams with their bare hands.
Manchester City, especially, will be disappointed with the news. The Manchester club were seemingly in pole position if Messi was allowed to leave for free.
The legendary forward’s arrival to English football looked more likely than ever before those at the Camp Nou prevented even the thought of a move going through this summer.
Has Messi’s Legacy Been Tarnished?
When reports emerged of his desire to leave, many Barcelona fans were quick to aim hate at Messi in an attempt to make any potential move feel less painful. Yet, as the Argentine forward reportedly prepares to stay, it has to be questioned whether things can return to how they once were.
Can Barcelona fans forgive Messi for wanting a new challenge? Can Messi forgive a percentage of the Barcelona fans for the hate aimed towards him? The atmosphere around the club will certainly be one to keep an eye on as Barcelona look to recover from this ordeal.
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