Lionel Messi and FC Barcelona’s Sports Director, Andoni Zubizarreta, are at odds over the contract extension of goalkeeper Manuel Pinto. According to reports from El Pais, Messi has stopped speaking to Zubizarreta due to the latter’s refusal to extend Pinto’s contract. Pinto, who is Messi’s close friend and the second goalkeeper for Barcelona, is popular within the team for his good humor and lively personality. However, Zubizarreta’s decision not to extend Pinto’s contract has reportedly upset Messi, especially since discussions regarding Messi’s own contract extension have been progressing well.
It’s worth noting that representatives for Messi have denied that his contract negotiations are contingent on Pinto’s extension. This situation highlights the complexities of internal dynamics within football clubs, even among key players and management.
Tags: Lionel Messi, Andoni Zubizarreta, FC Barcelona, contract extension, Manuel Pinto