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Richards: Barcelona will not make it easy for Messi to join City

Lionel Messi
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Lionel Messi is looking to join Manchester City after his Barcelona breakup but will have a hard time getting his way, claims Micah Richards.

Lionel Messi shook the world with his intent to end his Barcelona contract. He had already told Ronald Koeman of his desire to leave but it was not taken seriously. Only his certified burofax got everyone’s addition. 

In the aftermath of his official request, several clubs have been pointed out as front runners for his signature. 

Inter Milan, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain are all leading the way. Chelsea and Manchester United are also pondering over his addition. 

Former Barcelona assistant, Juan Carlos Unzue has tipped him for a move to the Etihad Stadium. City youth academy graduate, Mich Richards, has similar opinions but believes it will be easier said than done. 

Richard shared his desire to see Messi as a Citizen and shared it would be ‘incredible’ to see him at the club.

“As a fan of football, to have Messi in the Premier League would be fantastic. I’d love to see him over here but Barcelona will not make it easy,” the City youth academy graduate told Sky Sports.

“He’s 33 but I watched him against Napoli and thought, he’s still got it, he’s still a magician.

“When Sheikh Mansour took over, the signing of Robinho from Real Madrid was massive. He was the catalyst for the likes of Silva, Aguero, Kompany. If Man City could pull it off, it would be incredible.”

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