Lionel Messi was reduced to tears during his Barcelona farewell conference, while answering questions from fans at the Nuo Camp.
The Copa America winner was full of tears following his exit from the Spanish giants, saying leaving the Catalan club was difficult, while affirming he was ready to stay.
It was a heartfelt final press conference for the Ballon d’Or winner, while also declaring that front-line suitors, Paris Saint-Germain switch “is a possibility.”
The goal machine was out of contract in June, and it was confirmed on Friday on the club’s website that he won’t be signing a new deal due to “financial and structural obstacles.”
What has been said?
“This is very difficult; I was not prepared for this. Last year I was convinced to leave, but this year we were going to stay; my family and I wanted to continue here, in our house,” the superstar said.
“After 21 years, I’m leaving with my three Catalan-Argentine kids. We’ve lived in this city; this is our home. I’m just really grateful for everything, my teammates, and everyone who has been by my side.
“I gave everything for this club from the first day I arrived to the last. I never imagined having to say goodbye as I didn’t think about it. What’s clear is I did everything possible, and Barca couldn’t do it because of La Liga.
“A lot of things have been said about me, but on my behalf, we did everything I could because I wanted to stay. Last year I didn’t want to stay, and I said it. This year I did, and I couldn’t.
“I love this club. Without seeing the fans for over a year and a half has been very hard. If I had Imagined it, I would’ve imagined the Camp Nou full and being able to say goodbye properly.”
Is PSG the next place?
The prolific goalscorer, when asked if he will join the French side Paris Saint-Germain as it is being speculated, he answered: “PSG is a possibility, yes.”
Leo’s era at Camp Nou
The Superstar leaves the club as their all-time goal scorer with 672 goals in 778 appearances across all competitions. He is been regarded as the best player to ever played for the Blaugrana, has won Six Ballon d’Or with Barcelona in his 21-year time at the club and 34 trophies, including 10 La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League.
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