Undoubtedly one of the most talented and best players of our time, Lionel Messi simply couldn't hide his tears as he bid farewell to the club he has been for more than 2 decades. “I tried to behave with humility and respect, and I hope that is what remains of me when I leave the club. As long as I go on being competitive and as long as my body responds I’ll carry on playing. As long as I can, I will carry on competing.” Said the 34 year old.
The 6-time Ballon d'Or winner had to fight back tears as he explained how hard he and his camp tried to negotiate for a better deal that would have him stay at Barcelona. Messi even requested for a 50% pay cut on his wages but Barcelona simply couldn't come to terms with any deal with the Argentine.
“My family and I were convinced I wanted to stay here, that’s what we all wanted more than anything. We thought we’d be staying here in Barcelona, today I have to say goodbye to all of this. We’ve always made this our home, we’re at home and we thought we’d be staying here in Barcelona. My contract was never the issue … what I know is that I did everything I could. The club said it could not happen because of La Liga. I can guarantee you that I did everything I could to stay.”
All 35 trophies he won during his time at the club were laid out for what the club described would be a private photo session after the news conference. With the departure of the Argentine skipper, PSG fans couldn't be happier as a medical is expected to take place today once Messi arrives in France. PSG have also booked the Eiffel Tower on August 10th with possible speculations being that they will use the iconic tower to unveil their new signing.