Messi is STAYING! Barcelona president quashes rumours, announces Ronald Koeman’s arrival

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu quashed all rumours of a Lionel Messi transfer away from Camp u, insisting that 33-year-old will end his career at Barcelona. Bartomeu also revealed that if re are more setbacks,  club will anunce Dutchman Ronald Koeman as new Barcelona manr. Only yesterday, Barcelona anunced departure of Eric Abidal as club's sporting director a few hours after he was me to sack Quique Setien.

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Barcelona president Bartomeu on Lionel Messi transfer rumours

In an interview with Barca TV and a handful of select journalists this week, Barcelona president discussed Lionel Messi's future at club. Bartomeu said: "I've spoken about this plenty of times and said that Lionel Messi wants to end his career at Barcelona." 57-year-old went on to d that Messi is expected to be pillar of project when Ronald Koeman takes charge of reins. 

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Bartomeu n spoke about Messi's contract expiring in 2021 and revealed that he is in constant contact with Argentine and his far over extending his stay. "We have a sold project and even new coach is counting on him to stay," he said. Over past few days, multiple reports claimed that Lionel Messi might consider leaving Barcelona in near future due to chaos at club. Barcelona suffered an 8-2 humiliation in Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich, which also saw LaLiga heavyweights go trophyless for first time since 2007-08 campaign.

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Barcelona president Bartomeu on Ronald Koeman taking charge of club

Bartomeu was n asked about next manr at club and he confirmed Ronald Koeman's arrival. "If re are more setbacks n Ronaldo Koeman will be appointed as new manr of Barcelona and le se players forward." Bartomeu also asserted that  57-year-old has a previous connection with Barcelona as Koeman was part of Johan Cryuff's ‘Dream Team' and he understands brand of football.

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On Tuesday, Barcelona anunced that Eric Abidal h stepped down from his role as sporting director. However, Bartomeu insisted that he has a responsibility towards club and won't step down willingly until elections which are set to be held in March 2021. He also revealed that it is unlikely club will purchase any top players over summer transfer window, ruling out moves for Inter Milan's Lautaro Martinez and PSG's Neymar. 

Im Credits - Barcelona Twitter / Leo Messi Instagram / AP