The future of Lionel Messi at FC Barcelona has become a topic of debate among the club’s leaders. While the player expresses a desire for a contract extension, there are differing opinions within the club’s leadership.
President Sandro Rosell asserted on Thursday that it is “impossible” for Lionel Messi to leave the club during his mandate. Rosell emphasized his commitment, stating, “As long as I am president of Barça, everything possible and even impossible will be done to keep Messi at the club.” He further reiterated that it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, for Messi to part ways with Barcelona.
However, two days prior, Javier Faus, the economic vice-president of Barça, expressed skepticism about renegotiating Messi’s contract, citing that it had already been revised six months ago. Faus questioned the need for an extension, suggesting that President Rosell might consider selling Messi for “zero.”
Lionel Messi, who faced several injuries in 2013 and is currently sidelined until January, signed a contract extension in the spring, binding him to the club until 2018. The contract reportedly includes a €250 million release clause. The arrival of Neymar in the summer has seemingly disrupted the salary structure at Barcelona, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s new contract with Real Madrid has added another dimension to the salary comparison. Ronaldo’s reported annual salary of €17 million now surpasses Messi’s €16 million, making him the highest-paid player in Spanish football.
The situation highlights the complex negotiations and financial considerations surrounding contract extensions for top football stars.
