For FCBarcelona, who style themselves ’more than a club’ if this is indeed adios to a superstar who is 'more than a player' his departure will leave a massive hole. LionelMessi Messi Barca LaLiga IOLSport
Now there are fears for the future on the pitch after the club said Thursday that agreement on a new deal could not be reached"due to economic and structural obstacles" under Spanish League rules, scotching plans for him to remain with his only club for another five years, until 2026, when he would be 39.
That abject showing meant a first trophyless season since 2007 and also marked the first time Barca had conceded eight goals in a game since losing to Sevilla 8-0 in the 1946 Spanish Cup. Now once again, he is headed for the exit door even if few clubs are likely to have the financial firepower to pay his wages although he is at least available on a free transfer.