In a detailed sit-down with La Sexta's Jordi Évole, set to air on December 27, Lionel Messi provides clarity on his current situation at Barcelona.
Lionel Messi in a new interview has come clear of his situation at Barcelona. In an hour-long chat, Barcelona’s captain and talisman sat down with La Sexta’s Jordi Évole which will be broadcasted on December 27.
This represents the first time Messi has spoken openly with the press since he reluctantly told GOAL he would stay at Barca to avoid taking his own club to court.
The previous summer was a rollercoaster; Messi submitted a formal request to leave, convinced that his release clause had expired. This was countered by La Liga and the club, who claimed the pandemic-related season extension meant the clause was still in effect.
Even after agreeing to stay for another year under Ronald Koeman, the football world continued to speculate on whether Messi would leave the Nou Camp. Interestingly, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner now hints that he could extend his stay beyond June 2021. Speaking to La Sexta, as reported by Catalunya Radio, Messi mentioned he is currently in a good place. He confessed that the end of the previous season left him in a difficult mental state, which carried over into the early part of this year. Nevertheless, he is now determined to give everything for the current season. He expressed empathy for the club's internal struggles, admitting the atmosphere has been tough for everyone, but he believes a turnaround is coming.
As per Catalunya Radio Messi told La Sexta that today he is fine. He did affirm being in a very bad dilemma in the summer and that was because of how the season ended and he did drag that mindset coming into the beginning of next season. But Messi feels like fighting really for everything that lies ahead in this season.
He further said he understands that the club is going through a difficult time and everything that surrounds Barcelona has made it difficult for everyone associated with the club but he is confident of the tables to turn for good.
While neither Messi nor Barcelona have been in peak form this season, the Argentine reached a monumental milestone during a recent 2-2 draw against Valencia. The 33-year-old scored his sixth league goal, bringing his total to 643—equaling the legendary Pelé's record for most goals scored for a single club. Pelé, who set the mark with Santos, took to Instagram to offer his congratulations.
Messi responded with gratitude, stating that receiving such a kind message from a legend of Pelé's stature meant a great deal to him.