Lionel Messi to leave Barcelona, announces club

BARCELONA: In a shocking revelation on Thursday night, Barcelona announced club legend Lionel Messi will not continue with the Spanish giant

"Despite having reached an agreement between Barcelona and Leo Messi and with the clear intention of both parties to sign a new contract today, it will not be possible to formalize due to economic and structural obstacles (Spanish LaLiga regulations)," the official statement read.

"Faced with this situation, Lionel Messi will not continue to be linked to Barcelona. The two parties deeply regret that the wishes of both the player and the Club cannot finally be fulfilled. Barca wants to thank with all the heart the player's contribution to the aggrandizement of the institution and wishes him the best in his personal and professional life".

Messi, whose Barcelona contract expired at the end of June and was slated as a free agent, was expected to sign a fresh five year deal with Barca ahead of the upcoming La Liga season. Agencies

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