Josep Maria Bartomeu has been the center of attention in recent days since Lionel Messi‘s decision to leave Barcelona was announced. The club president reappeared on Twitter, not to talk about Messi and his possible departure, but to say goodbye to Ivan Rakitic, another Barcelona star.
Bartomeu and Jorge Messi, Lionel’s father and his agent, will meet on Wednesday to discuss the legal issues and try to reach an agreement about the future of the six-time Ballon d’Or winner. Messi wants to leave the club for free, while the club will not let him go unless his€700 Million release clause is paid.
While everyone is talking about Messi’s future and a possible move to Manchester City, Barcelona is going through a rebuilding process, with new manager Ronald Koeman in charge. World-class players such as Luis Suárez andArturo Vidal have been told that they will not be in Koeman’s plans for next season and are looking for new clubs. Today, Bartomeu said goodbye to one of these stars: Rakitic.
Bartomeu reappears on Twitter to say goodbye to Rakitic
“Thank you,Ivan Rakitic, for your commitment and dedication. You’ve been a fundamental part of the successes of the last several years, and a example of professionalism. You will always have a home in Barcelona and at Barça”, wrote Bartomeu on his Twitter account with a picture of himself alongside Rakitic and the trophies the player has won at Barcelona.
Rakitic joined Barcelona in the 2014-15 season. He has won 13 titles with the Spanish club, including the UEFA Champions League 2014-15 and the FIFA Club World Cup 2015.