Regarding Joining PSG, "There Is a Possibility"
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Suhwan] Lionel Messi shed tears during a press conference held as he left FC Barcelona, where he had been for over 20 years.
On the 8th (local time), Messi said at the press conference held in Barcelona, Spain, "This is the toughest moment in my career," adding, "When the club informed me of the separation, I was literally in shock. It felt like a large container full of cold water was poured over me all at once, and I still can't believe this situation."
He continued, "Nevertheless, I will continue playing football. As long as I am competitive and physically able to play, I will keep going until the end."
Messi also emphasized, "I did everything I could to stay at Barcelona," and "This was what I wanted more than anything else."
In particular, Messi could not hide his overwhelming emotions during the press conference. He choked up several times while speaking at the podium, and repeatedly wiped away tears with tissues handed to him by his wife, Antonella Roccuzzo.
Earlier, FC Barcelona announced on the 5th that the renewal of Messi's contract had failed.
The club explained, "Although the club and Messi had agreed on a new contract and were clearly willing to sign the contract today, the deal could not be completed due to financial and structural obstacles imposed by the league."
Since Messi's contract with Barcelona expired in June, it was highly likely that he would stay through contract renewal negotiations.
However, he was hindered by the 'proportional salary cap' system, a 'financial fair play' regulation that prevents clubs from spending more money than their income when signing players.
Although Messi agreed to significantly reduce his salary, Barcelona ultimately gave up on renewing the contract citing financial and structural obstacles.
According to local media, Messi is expected to join Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in France. A French media outlet reported that Messi is likely to move to Paris on the 9th to finalize negotiations with PSG.
Additionally, Spanish local media reported that PSG officially offered Messi a contract on the 8th.
At the press conference, Messi did not deny the possibility of joining PSG. When asked about joining PSG, he briefly replied, "There is a possibility."
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