Shocking: Lionel Messi leaves FC Barcelona

After 21 long years, legendary footballer Lionel Messi left FC Barcelona. The Argentina striker had to leave the club despite both parties having reached an agreement over a new contract. The club stated that it cannot happen due to financial and structural obstacles.

“Despite FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi having reached an agreement and the clear intention of both parties to sign a new contract today, this cannot happen because of Spanish LaLiga regulations on player registration,” said FC Barcelona in an official statement.

“As a result of this situation, Messi shall not be staying on at FC Barcelona. Both parties deeply regret that the wishes of the player and the club will ultimately not be fulfilled,” it further added.

FC Barcelona concluded by stating, “FC Barcelona wholeheartedly expresses its gratitude to the player for his contribution to the aggrandisement of the club and wishes him all the very best for the future in his personal and professional life.”

The 34-year-old Messi signed the contract with FCB at the age of 13. Since then, he had represented the team in 778 games and remained a top-scorer with 672 goals.