First anniversary of Messi waving goodbye to Barca

From age 17, Leo Messi began his professional footballing career with Barcelona. He continued playing at the club until he was 33. His 16 year stint at the Camp Nou brutally came to an end on 5th August 2021.

The difficult financial situation at the club meant that it was not economically viable to renew his contract. "No one can be above the club", said Joan Laporta on the matter. And so, Messi had no other option than to leave his beloved Barca.

A year has since passed from this day. PSG became Leo Messi's new home and he has so far made 35 appearances for the French side, scoring 12 goals and making 14 assists.

His first season away from the Camp Nou was not plain sailing. The star was criticised for not adapting quickly to his new side and his goal tally was far less than the number he achieved in his final season with Barca - 38.

Messi could not hold back the tears when saying goodbye to the club and, the images were distressing for any 'Cule' to see. 365 days later, and the wound is still fresh.

No one has forgetten him at the Camp Nou. In fact, his return has been speculated following the completion of his contract at PSG in 2023.

The president of 'Los Azulgranas', the one who said that no one can be above the club, spoke about the subject following the completion of a year without Messi: "I have a moral debt to him, we'll see what happens". And Xavi, who shared the dressing room with the Argentine for many years, believes that Messi should be being managed by him. "He deserves a second chance", said the Barca coach on his possible return.

Only time will tell if we see Messi back in a Barcelona shirt. However, one thing for certain is that a year on, Barca fans continue to miss the star.