Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi has revealed that there have been a number of clubs interested in signing him over the years, but he chose to stay with the Catalan club. The player is currently nursing an injury, which is the third of the season. He is expected to be out for the year, which is a major blow for his chances of retaining the FIFA Ballon d’Or award. Messi has won this coveted award for the last four years in succession. He recently lifted the European Golden Boot award for scoring numerous goals last season.
Even though he has already suffered the injury this campaign, Messi has 42 goals in 2013. He reportedly has released clause of around £ 250 million in his contract, which would make him out of the reach for several clubs across the world. However, there have been megarich clubs like Manchester City, PSG, and Chelsea who are capable of offering him due to the presence of rich benefactors. Messi has revealed stunningly that there have been interest from other clubs in the past, but he has discarded them to stay at Barcelona.
“I feel honored each time my name is mentioned with other big clubs. It’s true that a lot of clubs have shown an interest in me. But my opinion has not changed. Barcelona’s style of play suits me and it’s my dream to stay at Barcelona for the rest of my life. I might not be playing at the moment, but the team is doing great again,” said Messi after the 4-0 win over Granada.
This confirms the rumours that the aforementioned clubs were interested in signing him. Messi is regarded as the best player in the world right now. He has been with Barcelona throughout his entire career after having joined them as a youngster.