Barcelona head coach Ronald Koeman is hoping that Barcelona’s ‘improving’ side will convince Lionel Messi to stay past this season.
Following Barcelona’s Champions League exit at the hands of PSG, Lionel Messi might have played his last European fixture for the Catalans.
Messi has spent his entire professional career with Barcelona but his contract expires at the end of the season. There is speculation he could leave the Nou Camp in the coming months.
Despite Barcelona’s exit, many were left pleased with the club’s performance. A particular highlight under Koeman so far has been the development of youngsters.
Koeman believes Barcelona have a bright future and hopes a growing young squad can convince Messi to stay.
He said as per The Guardian: “Leo has seen for quite some time that the team is improving thanks to all the changes we’ve made.”
“Particularly, we have young players of great quality. We’ve got a great future ahead. Leo can’t have any doubts about what the future holds for this team.”
“I think Leo is the one who has to decide his future. Nobody can help him with this. I think he knows that this Barca team is on the right path.”
“I think this can’t be the reason for him not staying.”
Messi famously tried to leave the club last summer but the club denied him that chance.
Newly-elected president Joan Laporta has publicly stated his desire to keep the Argentine at the club. However, the current financial situation of the Spanish giants could complicate matters moving forward.
In a few months from now, Messi will decide whether to carry on his relationship with Barcelona or seek a challenge elsewhere. We’ll be here to see how that goes.
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