Lionel Messi calls time on European playing career
Lionel Messi (36), who left Paris Saint-Germain to join Inter Miami this summer, has all but ruled out a return to Europe during an interview with France Football.
Messi moved from Argentina to Spain at the age of just 13, integrating Barcelona’s prestigious La Masia academy. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner went on to play 778 times for La Blaugrana, scoring 672 times and registering 303 assists, winning every possible prize with the La Liga club before moving to PSG in the summer 0f 2021.
It is well documented that Messi wished to retire at Barcelona, but his departure was forced amidst a financial crisis at the Catalan club. At PSG, Messi won two Ligue 1 titles, featuring 75 times and scoring 32 goals. He left in the summer after his contract was not renewed. Rumours over an extension swirled throughout the season, however, his future was effectively decided after an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia saw him sanctioned by the club. Whilst he was re-integrated into the side, his departure was confirmed.
Messi’s wish, as he told France Football, was a return to Barcelona, however, that was not possible, and he instead joined MLS side Inter Miami. Having made the move to the US, Messi does not believe he will return to Europe. “Yes, I think [my move away from Europe is definitive]. Thanks to God, I had the chance to have an extraordinary career, I won everything I wanted in Europe, where I played for many years. Now that I have made the step to come to the United States, I don’t think I will go back to playing in Europe. Of course, for the rest of my life, I will miss playing in the Champions League and La Liga, matches with a particular taste. But I made the most out of it as I could, so there is no frustration,” said
Read on getfootballnewsfrance.com
