Koeman ‘not confident’ Messi will stay at Barcelona and sign a new contract

Ronald Koeman says he’s “not confident” that Lionel Messi will stay at Barcelona, but cannot imagine him playing for another club.

Messi has entered the final five months of his current contract at Camp Nou, with speculation over his future intensifying with each passing week.

The 33-year-old has insisted he will wait until the end of the season before making a final decision on his future, but he is being tipped to call time on his illustrious career at Barca amid reported interest from Paris Saint-Germain , Manchester City and Inter.

He has been as influential on the pitch as ever in 2020-21 despite the persistent transfer rumours, scoring 16 goals in 24 games to help the Blaugrana challenge for silverware on multiple fronts once again.

Koeman has been delighted with his recent contribution, but admits he’s not sure whether the six-time Ballon d’Or winner will remain in Catalunya beyond the summer.

Asked if he thinks Messi will end up committing to fresh terms at Camp Nou, the Dutchman told The Athletic : “I’m not confident about that.

“I’m hopeful, yes, about this because he’s still a great player and he’s still winning matches for us, for the team.

“I’m enjoying being his coach, if you look at his qualities every day in the training sessions, it’s incredible.

“Of course, he came as a young kid to Barcelona. And I still don’t see Leo Messi in another shirt other than the Barca shirt.”

Koeman added on his relationship with the Argentine: “I don’t have any problems with Leo.

“He is the captain of the team, I speak to Leo about tactical things and we have a really good professional relationship that I have with all the players…..read more

 

Source: Goal

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