Lionel Messi was one of the players nominated for the 2021 Ballon D'or and 'France Football' once again went over his Barcelona departure. The Argentian is and will continue to have place in Barca's history and he wants to go back there in the future. "It was painful because I wanted to retire there," he said.
Leo Messi has been through one of the most difficult moments of his sporting career. It seemed impossible for Messi to play for a club which was not Barcelona, but the La Liga side's financial situation made it happen.
After forming part of the 30 man shortlist for the Ballon D'or, Messi, who is currently with Argentina, made some comments to 'France Football' on his departure from the Catalan capital.
"After enjoying several days rests given by the coach this summer, I return to Barcelona with the idea of signing the contract and starting to train immediately," Messi recalled. He was always clear and that is what he always said.
The Argentinian and his family thought that "it was all done" and that what was missing was "the signature", but that was not the case: "When I arrived they told me that they did not have the resources to renew me and that I couldn't stay. That I had to look for another club.
"They altered my plans and it was painful to leave Barcelona after so many years. The idea was to retire there. It was extremely difficult to accept. It was thinking that we were going to have to leave Barcelona and that the family were going to have to change their routine completely. The kids were going to have to change school and come with us. I had no other option but to leave," Messi continued.
Messi feels comfortable after his move to Ligue 1 despite being hit with a knee problem. "PSG gave me the opportunity to join their project. I received other offers, but we reached an agreement very quickly," Messi concluded.