Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has said that the club talisman, Lionel Messi will end his football career with the Catalan giant.
Bartomeu stated this to dismiss reports that the Argentina international was unwilling to renew his current contract when it expires in 2021.
Speaking with Spanish network Movistar, the Barca president noted that that club is negotiating with many players, and Messi is one of them that is willing to stay.
“And so we’re going to enjoy him for much longer,” he said.
Messi has recorded 19th assist in the current La Liga season while tipping the scoring chat with 23 goals as well. Real Madrid striker, Karim Benzema, is six goals behind him.
Bartomeu criticised VAR
Speaking after the club’s 4-1 win at Villarreal on Sunday evening in the La Liga, he said the Vidoe Assistant Referee (VAR( is not being used the way it supposed to.
He was making a reference to Real Madrid’s 1-0 with over Atthleico Bilbao.
which saw them close the gap to leaders Real Madrid to four points. The win moved the Les Blancos closer to the La Liga title with four points ahead of Barca and five games to go. The goal was via a Sergio Ramos’ penalty, which was awarded following a VAR review.
Bilbao’s penalty appeal was turned down during the game, leading Bartomeu to question the fairness of the technology.
“I saw the game in Bilbao, and although I don’t like to say it, I’ll repeat that VAR is not being used as it should be. Since the season returned after the Covid-19 crisis, it has not been equal, that has been reflected in the results, and it looks as if it always favours the same team.”
Reacting to the win, Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said he was “tired” of his side’s victories being criticized.
Real Madrid currently tops the league with 77 points while Barcelona is four points adrift with 73. Athletico Madrid and Sevilla complete the top four with 62 and 60 points, respectively.
