A man who has spent many memorable years working together with the cult Argentine at Camp Nou, claims to have no inside knowledge of the discussions
Gerard Pique claims he has no knowledge of Lionel Messi’s future at Barcelona, although he spent 13 years with him at Camp Nou, but admits the Argentine superstar, who is considering a big contract, “looks happier”.
All eyes in Catalonia are on the six-time Ballon d’Or winner as he nears the end of his current job and an important career crossroads.
As a man from one club, severing ties with Barca would not be easy, but one urge to go out was made in 2020 and no extension of lucrative terms was agreed with La Liga giants as a sign of a free agency.
What was said?
Asked about the future of the cult teammate and the decisions that will be made soon, Pique said Movistar: “I can’t tell you what will happen to him.
“I think he’s been looking happier in recent months. That’s important.
“It affects the team because he is the captain and it affects the whole team. The club works very well, and a lot of that is because of him.
“Messi has been with us on the team for several years. We know him well and we will support his decision.
“We should be grateful for what he did.”
The bigger picture
Goal he learned that Messi would not make a decision about his future until the summer.
He is fully aware of the furore surrounding his contract expiration, with stories of interests like Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City never being far away.
Barca, however, has begun to take positive steps forward under the leadership of Ronald Koeman.
The glory of the King’s Cup was enjoyed, Messi starred in the final triumph over the Athletic Club, and the League title remains to be won.
Joan Laporta, who was in charge during the Pep Guardiola trophy in charge of the Blaugrana, has also been re-elected president and boasts a strong bond with the captain of the talisman club.
It remains to be seen where Messi will trade in 2021-22, but confidence seems to be building on Camp Nou when it comes to destroying new conditions.