Barcelona technical director Robert Fernandez says Lionel Messi will be at the club when the remodelled Camp Nou is unveiled in 2021.
The Catalans are understood to be planning talks with the Argentine, who is in the second year of his current contract, over an extension until 2022, and Robert feels there is no reason for Messi not to be around until then.
“We are talking about the best player in history, who has both a human and sporting quality, and people close to him are surprised at just how humble Messi is,” he declared during an extensive interview with Estudio Estadio.
“He has an intelligence and capacity above the normal. This is an extraordinary time and we have the player for the next few years.
“Some were saying he may be in decline but that’s not true. He still has a lot to offer, is determined, and will be like that for many years. Messi is going to continue with us and I’m sure he’ll still be here in 2021.”
Robert also spoke of his working relationship with Blaugrana boss Luis Enrique.
“It functions in a clear way. Between the two of us we are seeking the best for the club and it’s difficult as we are always looking for the best players. We have a great team behind us, some of them with great experience, and we watch many games.
“You need to keep abreast of what is happening. In the end the market, although it’s large, is looking at the same type of players,” he explained, before admitting there is money to sign players this summer.
“Barca have a magnificent team and it’s hard to find players who are good enough to get into it, and that’s decisive, but there is money available to sign for next season.
“The amount will be adequate for us to compete, so we are relaxed, but it could vary depending on which players leave.”
