Lionel Messihas been playing at the Camp Nou in Spainfor 21 years, or more than half his life. However, for the firsttime in his professional career,the Argentinewill be seen wearing a jersey that is not Barcelonaās. The last time was back whenhe was still a promising13-years-old talent at Newellās Old Boys in his homeland, Argentina.
While announcing his sudden and unexpected departure, Barcelona revealed that both sides had previously come to an agreement for a long-term five-year contract extension until 2026.Because of the Blaugranaāsdire financial condition and La Ligaās tight wage limit restrictions, Ronald Koemanās side will be significantly weakened as the superstar forwardand the club have been unable to proceed with the new deal.
In the past 15 years, Messi has been the face of Barcelona and hisbombshell exit is certainly a huge blow to the clubās fortunes. It istrivial whetherthere was achance for the34-year-old to re-sign for the La Liga giants, ashe is now on his way to join his former Camp Nou teammate Neymar at Paris Saint-Germain.
Messi leaves Barcelona: How former and current Barca players reacted to the news
Ilaix Moriba (right) of Barcelona celebrates with Lionel Messi (center) and Ousmane Dembele (left). (Getty)
While there is one former Barcelona player who doesnāt mind Messiās exit, other former and present-day members of the Blaugrana have taken to social media to express their thoughts and feelings about this move. In the case of Gerard Pique and Sergio Busquets, he has known them for over a decade.
Although some newcomers to the squad, such as adolescent prodigies Pedri and Ansu Fati have enjoyed playing and training with one of footballās best players, they have not forgotten it. Find out how have the Barca players responded to the news thatLionel Messi will leave the club after being part of it for a total of21 years.
How current Barcelona players and Messi teammates have reacted
