Lionel Messi: Could the Premier League be a realistic destination?
On Thursday the 5th of August, Barcelona announced that long-time talisman Lionel Messi would leave the club, as they could not agree on an extension due to “economic and structural obstacles”.
After being at the Catalonia side from the age of 13, Messi will now have to find a new club and is it possible to think that the Premier League could be a landing spot for him?
Messi will take up a hefty chunk of a team’s budget as his wages are very high. This reduces the number of clubs who can realistically offer the Argentinian a contract, in England, one of those clubs is Manchester City.
LATEST NEWS | Leo #Messi will not continue with FC Barcelona
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 5, 2021
After being at the Catalonia side from the age of 13, Messi will now have to find a new club and is it possible to think that the Premier League could be a landing spot for him?
Messi will take up a hefty chunk of a team’s budget as his wages are very high. This reduces the number of clubs who can realistically offer the Argentinian a contract, in England, one of those clubs is Manchester City.
Manchester City have been vocal in this transfer window, with them announcing the £100 million signing of Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish. They have also been heavily linked with wantaway England Captain and Tottenham striker, Harry Kane.
City were talked about as a suitor for the Argentinian in the summer as he voiced his frustration with Barcelona’s hierarchy. At the time the connection was dismissed as most believed, Messi would never leave Barcelona.
It is believed City have been on the lookout for a striker this summer and despite Manager Pep Guardiola’s dismissal of this, saying they cannot afford it, Messi could have fallen into their lap.
🚨 OFFICIAL STATEMENT #Messi
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 5, 2021
“Despite having reached an agreement between Barça and Leo Messi and with the clear intention of both parties to sign a new contract today, it will not be possible to formalize due to economic and structural obstacles (Spanish LaLiga regulations)”. pic.twitter.com/9P7YAdbYBq
The Cityzens play the sort of style that the 6-time Ballon d’or winner thrives on. Guardiola also has a good relationship with him having managed him in Spain and City can really make Messi the focal point of the team.
All this will really attract him but there will no doubt be some strong competition. The likes of PSG with friends of Messi will be at the top of the list, alongside boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys, whom Messi has voiced a desire to play for.
Must Read. Optimal Midfield Picks for the FPL 2021/22 season. light
We’re into the unknown as to where Messi will be this upcoming season, but Manchester City is a viable option. It will take some getting used to, wherever we see one of the greatest ever, next.