Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has disclosed that he is convinced reigning World Player of the Year Lionel Messi will end his career at the club amidst reports over his future at the Spanish outfit.
The four-time Ballon d'or recipient is yet to agree a new deal with his current deal set to expire in the summer of 2018 but his club president is adamant the 29-year old's long-term future is at the club.
Speaking on Messi, who has scored 433 goals in 456 appearances, at the announcement of a new shirt deal with Japanese retailer Rakuten that could rise to over £200m including add-ons to become the highest in football sponsorship history, Bartomeu said: "All of Barca believe this is how it has to be, because he is the player that in the last few years has brought us sporting success."
He further added: "I believe we've got a team with incredible players, all of them.
"There is nonetheless a leader of course, Leo Messi, he is well known and popular all over the world.
"We're all convinced, we're all positive Leo Messi will end his sporting career in Barca." he concluded.
No comments:
Post a Comment