After reports broke out yesterday stating that Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi has decided to continue at the club, the internet was once again taken by storm. However, the Barcelona fans’ celebrations might have been slightly premature.
Mundo Deportivo has reported that sources close to Messi have denied rumours circulating that he’s confirmed staying at Camp Nou, stating that the Argentine is yet to make any concrete decision on his future at the club. Despite Barcelona’s unwavering optimism about his continuity, Messi’s immediate future is still a mystery.
One of Messi’s unyielding terms to remain is a competitive sporting project and not empty promises, and Barcelona president Joan Laporta is yet to revert with an official offer to the Argentine. In addition, the economic situation of the club is still to be addressed and needs further serious assessment before Barcelona can put a contract on the table for the 33-year-old.
With Barcelona ending their La Liga campaign in third place against Eibar in Messi’s absence, the Argentine talisman will want to be sure that the team will be in contention for trophies next season. This is one of the key factors influencing his decision to stay or leave.
The earlier reports that confirmed his alleged continuity were founded presumptuously on the basis of Sergio Aguero’s signing being imminent, due to be announced after the Champions League final. Being a close compadre of Leo Messi, it was assumed that Aguero would not have agreed to join Barcelona if he was not assured of his compatriot’s renewal at the club.
Messi has already taken an early leave, to get a few days of rest in ahead of the upcoming Copa America in June where he hopes to finally secure an international trophy for his beloved Argentina.
All signs point toward his renewal being finalized after the cup competition in South America.
Credit: Football Tribe Malaysia
