‘Messi wanted to stay at Barcelona’ – Laporta explains Argentine’s exit and says he couldn’t ‘destroy’ club

The six-time Ballon d’Or winner is heading out of Camp Nou, with the Liga giants unable to retain his services despite agreeing a new contract

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has been explaining why a new contract cannot be agreed with Lionel Messi, with an all-time great preparing to sever ties with the only club side that he has represented in an iconic career.

The Liga giants appeared to be closing in on an agreement that would keep the six-time Ballon d’Or winner on their books, with Messi having opened himself up to an extended stay in Catalunya.

Financial struggles have, however, brought those discussions to a close, with a desire from both sides to get a deal done not enough as the Argentina international prepares to open a new chapter away from Barca. Read More