“I want the best player in the world to stay,” When Ronald Koeman insisted on Lionel Messi’s Barcelona contract renewal before transfer blunder
Former Barcelona manager's plans for Lionel Messi come out in fresh Barcelona documentary.
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Lionel Messi and Ronald Koeman
FC Barcelona legend Ronald Koeman was in charge of the Catalans when their club legend Lionel Messi was forced out of the team. Multiple reports in the past suggested that Koeman wanted to get rid of the Argentine. But it was the other way around. The former Barca manager has pushed the then-club president Bartomeu to proceed with Messi’s contract extension.
In the latest Amazon-Prime documentary, “FC Barcelona, to new era,” the manager and president were seen discussing La Pulga’s continuity at the club. “We both have to tell Leo Messi to continue. I want the best player in the world to stay.” Ronal Koeman said to Josep Bartomeu. It is now evident that the Barcelona board did want Lionel Messi to continue with them, but fate had written something else for arguably the greatest footballer of all time.
Lionel Messi bid farewell to the Catalan giants after 17 sensational seasons with them. FC Barcelona couldn’t extend Messi’s contract due to financial barriers, which forced out the club captain in a disheartening manner. French champions Paris Saint-Germain were quick to pound on this opportunity as they signed Messi on a free deal in the summer of 2021.
Amazon Prime has released a sporting documentary focusing on Barcelona’s rebuilding era. The center of the documentary revolves around ‘the Xavi Project’ but also consists of short glimpses of the nostalgic times at Camp Nou. The Catalan giants look forward to bigger opportunities after horrors in the past. They have also signed players like Robert Lewandowski, Rafinha, and more to compete on the biggest stage of football.
Also Read–“Para Ziva,” Lionel Messi gifts signed Argentina jersey to MS Dhoni’s daughter Ziva
Why did Lionel Messi leave FC Barcelona?
The 35-year-old was in tears after financial turmoil at the club forced him to leave Barca. FC Barcelona failed to renew Messi’s contract as they did not follow the “Financial Fair Play” imposed by La Liga. La Pulga broke down during his final press conference at the club in 2021. It was an emotional moment for all Barcelona fans, as one of their greatest players was propelled out of the club.
It has been over a year since Leo left for Paris. After a sloppy start in France, the magician finally found his feet in the French league. He also fulfilled his dream of winning the FIFA World Cup trophy with Argentina in Qatar. Lionel Messi sealed the GOAT debate after a sensational World Cup-winning run.
Lionel Messi seems to be enjoying life after conquering World football. Although, things are still hefty for the Catalans as they were knocked out of the Champions League in group stages for the second season. Messi’s exit caused a lot of damage to FC Barcelona.
Also Read –Cristiano Ronaldo’s son returns to Real Madrid Academy after 4 years
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Aviral Srivastava
(288 Articles Published)