Lionel Messi has left Barcelona.
The Argentine was poised to sign a new contract at Camp Nou until 2026 after technically being a free agent since July 1.
But it has been confirmed by Barcelona that the iconic attacker is leaving the club after 21 years of service, 10 La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns.
Here is how former Blaugrana striker Gary Lineker reacted on Twitter:
According to the club, ‘financial and structural obstacles’ have made it impossible for the player to continue there.
And Lineker, responding to a journalist, has suggested another twist could materialise, referencing Messi’s star power relative to La Liga’s need for a big name.
How many goals did Messi score for Barcelona?
According to BBC Sport, Messi has a staggering 672 goals for the club.
The South American magician made his senior debut way back in 2004 and has since clocked 778 appearances.
Some 474 of those goals have come in Spain’s top flight and another 120 being scored in the Champions League.
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