The “flea” before the jump.
Lionel Messi (33), nicknamed “La Pulga” (the flea), has been able to officially negotiate with other clubs since the beginning of the year. The FC Barcelona superstar willing to change will examine his options. The Catalan sports newspaper headlined the word “DIVISION” – separation in capital letters – in relation to the Argentine on Sunday.
2: 0 against Celta Vigo
Asensio with goal and butter tender assist in Real win
What: DAZN
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The waves from last summer seem to have smoothed outwards – but the tablecloth between Messi and Barça is cut. There is little chance that the attacking player will stay with the Catalans.
According to the newspaper “Sport” there are four serious options for how Messi will continue.
Option 1: switch to PSG
The Argentinean wishes to play with his buddy Neymar again. With the Catalans unable to afford to buy the Brazilian, Messi would have to join PSG to do so. The Paris club has long been interested in the commitment of the six-time world footballer – and the necessary financial resources. Messi would be free of charge, but would of course cost a princely salary. Fitting: With Mauricio Pochettino, Paris has just signed a new coach who is Argentine – just like Messi. Problem: the French Ligue 1 may not be very attractive for Messi.
Photo: REUTERS
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Option 2: move to Manchester City
The Citizens had tried again and again in recent years to sign Messi, but had repeatedly failed because such a transfer was not financially feasible. That is changing now. A reunification of Messi with former Barça coach Pep Guardiola would be extremely attractive for both sides. Guardiola has just extended his contract in Manchester until 2023.
Photo: AP
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Option 3: a change to the MLS
In a recent interview, Messi said he could well imagine becoming involved in the US Major League Soccer. Rumors quickly grew that under the Florida sun at Inter Miami a reunion with buddy Luis Suarez (moved to Atlético Madrid last summer) could take place. Quite possible – but probably only in two years, after one last serious stop in Europe.
Option 4: stay with Barça
Probably the most unlikely option at the moment. The tablecloth between the club and Messi seems cut. A lot would have to change within FC Barcelona to keep the Argentine. But: Much WILL change in the near future. A new president will be elected shortly. The whereabouts of Messi is a political issue in Barcelona. A candidate who could get Messi to stay would have the best chance of being elected. Basically, Messi had emphasized many times in the past that he wanted to work for the Catalans after his playing career. Whether he will end his active career there is currently more than questionable.
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