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Lionel Messi 'could leave Barcelona over European Super League involvement'

Messi 'could leave Barca over ESL involvement'
© Reuters
Barcelona forward Lionel Messi is reportedly having second thoughts about signing a new contract as the fallout from the European Super League bombshell continues.

Lionel Messi is reportedly thinking of leaving Barcelona and joining Paris Saint-Germain due to the Catalan giants' involvement in the European Super League.

The Argentina international's future has been up in the air since last summer, having tried and failed in an attempt to leave Camp Nou on a free transfer.

However, president Joan Laporta and head coach Ronald Koeman have spoken positively about the situation in recent weeks, with Messi expected to commit to a new deal.

According to The Mirror, though, the six-time Ballon d'Or winner is now having second thoughts again following Sunday's announcement regarding the ESL and the subsequent fallout.

UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin has made clear that any player contracted to a team in the breakaway competition will be prohibited from representing their country at any FIFA events, including the World Cup and Copa America.

That would mean Messi missing out on the chance to guide Argentina to a major trophy, whereas if he joined PSG - who are not part of the ESL as things stand - he could still take part in both competitions.

Manchester City are the only other club with a realistic chance of signing Messi, but they are also set to compete in the ESL, which could begin as early as next season.

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Lionel Messi in action for Barcelona on March 15, 2021
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