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Barcelona issue statement on confirmation of Lionel Messi’s decision to join Inter Miami.
Barcelona have released a following the confirmation of Lionel Messi’s transfer to MLS team Inter Miami.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner revealed his intention to leave Paris Saint-Germain for Inter Miami on Wednesday evening.
Messi’s former club, Barcelona, issued a statement on the decision shortly after it was made public.
Barcelona has now issued a formal statement in response to Messi’s decision, confirming that the 35-year-old would release a fitting homage, as he was unable to do so when he departed in 2021.
It said: “On Monday, June 5, Jorge Messi, the player’s father and representative, informed Club President Joan Laporta of the player’s decision to join Inter Miami, despite having been presented with a proposal from Barça, in consideration of the desire of both FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi for him to once again wear Blaugrana.
“President Laporta understood and respected Messi’s decision to want to compete in a league with fewer demands, further away from the spotlight and the pressure he has been subject to in recent years.
“Both Joan Laporta and Jorge Messi also agreed to work together to promote a proper tribute from Barça fans to honor a footballer who has been, is, and always will be beloved by Barça.”
Official statement from FC Barcelona on Leo Messi's decision to play for Inter Miamihttps://t.co/iuliiDOxsY
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 7, 2023
Messi’s transfer odyssey comes to a depressing conclusion, forcing Barcelona to focus on other targets over the next few weeks as they attempt to build on their LaLiga triumph from the previous campaign.