Report: Lionel Messi wants to stay at Barcelona under a competitive project

Lionel Messi has never failed to make his intention to retire at Barcelona clear. Throughout his career, he has received incredible offers from world class teams and opportunities to play under the biggest managers on the planet. Last year, though, it most fans’ worst nightmare almost became true as Messi demanded to leave, with a transfer to Manchester City looming large.

While he continued at Barça, the rumours have not stopped floating from either side. Right now, TVE has reported that Messi has made his intentions to stay at the club clear, but wants a competitive team in return.

Barcelona under Ronald Koeman experienced a sluggish start, but the Dutchman showed flexibility to adapt and has since taken the team to new heights. With the Copa del Rey trophy already wrapped up, the Garnet and the Blue are in the hunt for the La Liga, which they will clinch with 18 points in their next 18 games.

While the likes of Sergio Busquets, Gerard Pique, Messi, and the likes remain integral part of the team, it is the inclusion of youngsters such as Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Oscar Mingueza, Ronald Araujo, and others which has helped the team stay competitive throughout the season. If Leo wants the team to stay fuelled, the new administration must take notes from the current squad and build on the same.

As it stands, there are maybe a position or two that remain unfulfilled in the team, with the centre-forward role crying out loud for a competent player. Erling Haaland remains Barcelona’s priority, but the likes of Sergio Aguero and Memphis Depay have not been ruled out. A lot of intriguing prospects await Barça as 2021/22 approaches.