Josep Maria Bartomeu has claimed that the notion of Lionel Messi one day leaving Barcelona is an ‘impossibility’.
The Argentine looked to be nearing an exit from Camp Nou earlier in the season after a reported bust-up with Coach Luis Enrique and a series of suggestive hints in the build-up to January’s Ballon d’Or gala.
However, the No 10 has since rediscovered his best form, recently overtaking Cristiano Ronaldo in the Pichichi charts, and his President is convinced he will see out the remainder of his career in Catalunya.
“[Selling Lionel Messi?] Impossible. Whoever’s suggested that is trying to destabilise him,” Bartomeu told Gazzetta dello Sport.
“Leo grew up at Barcelona and therefore will retire at Barcelona. I also think it’s his objective.
“[The alleged bust-up between Messi and Luis Enrique] was incredibly exaggerated.
“In any case, conflicts between players and the Coach is normal in any workplace. A good team grow as a result of conflicts and finding solutions.
“[On the topic of Barca’s transfer embargo until 2016, the idea is to] sign players and let them stay at their current clubs until January.
“[The Clasico will be] important, but not decisive. There are still many matches and lots of the League remaining after the Clasico.
“[Paris Saint-Germain] are a strong team, who are growing, and having a good game against them will be tough.”
