Arsenal coach, Mikel Arteta, has said that any Premier League club will be happy to have six times world footballer of the year, Lionel Messi on their payroll.
This is a reaction to the Argentine’s frustration in Barcelona as the team is adrift Real Madrid with four points on the La Liga table with five games left.
This is a reaction to reports suggesting that Messi could be set for a move to the Premier League.
Manchester City had at a time wanted the Barcelona captain, presenting a blank cheque to state his salary, but it never occurred. Pepe Guardiola will also be delighted to have Messi in his squad again, having had a good relationship with him during his stint with Barcelona.
Is Lionel Messi planning to leave Barcelona?
There have been reports in Spain claiming that Messi is “considering leaving” Barcelona in 2021 when his contract expires because he is unhappy at the club.
Cadena SER via Sport reported that the skipper had fallen out with manager Quique Setien. With no new deal signed and his current contract up next summer, he is said to be eyeing a move away. The pair were reportedly involved in an awkward conversation during the drink break in their last match against Villareal, which the Catalan giant won 4-1.
Messi during the game set another record of 19 assists in La Liga. He is also the current top scorer in league with 22 goals, with Real Madrid forward, Karim Benzema six goals behind him.
While stating that he has no clue about the Premier League team the Argentine may want to join, Arteta said it would be a huge addition to the Premier League if the maestro joins any English club.
“It’s not a question for us, but if he joins this country, I think it would be a huge plus for the league and everybody to have the opportunity to enjoy him.”
To former Brazil striker, Rivaldo, Messi could move to Manchester City, adding that if he is considering leaving the club, then something must have gone wrong in the Barcelona dressing room.
He also stated that the Argentine is tired of all the constant problems that have surrounded the club in the last few months.
