Lionel Messi, 34, confirmed for the first time to the public that he is indeed leaving FC Barcelona, a departure few thought would ever happen.
After 20 years with the club, in perhaps the greatest pairing of a player and club in football history, Messi was confirmed late last week to be departing after a statement from the club, who were unable to sign him due to league restrictions.
Messi, from Argentina, held a press conference on Sunday in which he spoke of his great sadness in leaving the club, with president Joan Laporta also in attendance of the event.
Messi had previously agreed to sign on for another five years at a 50 per cent pay cut, but Barcelona was still unable to keep him due to league financial rules in terms of salary cap.
For now, it seems that French Club Paris St. Germain is the most likely next stop. He confirmed the possibility in the press conference.
“The truth is don’t know what to say. In recent days I have given lots of thought to what I can say and the truth is that I can’t think of anything,” says Messi.
“This is really difficult for me after so many years being here, my entire life. I’m not ready for this.
“After 21 years I’m leaving with my three Catalan Argentine kids. We’ve lived in this city, this is our home. I’m just really grateful for everything, all my team-mates, everyone who has been by my side.
“I gave everything for this club from the first day I arrived to the last. I never imagined having to say goodbye as I didn’t think about it.
“I love this club. Without seeing the fans for over a year and a half has been very hard.
“If I had imagined it ,I would’ve imagined the Camp Nou full and being able to say goodbye properly.
“A lot of things have gone through my head. I’ve still not come to terms with the reality of leaving this club now and changing my life. We need to accept it and move forward.”
