In August 2021, the unthinkable happened: Messi left Barcelona on a free transfer.
After 21 years, 672 goals and 35 trophies, financial restrictions under La Liga’s salary cap meant the club couldn’t register the new contract they had agreed, forcing his departure.
At an emotional news conference, a tearful Messi said he and his family had been certain they would stay in their home city.
He stressed he didn’t want to leave the club he loves and that the situation had taken him by surprise.
Though linked with Manchester City, he ultimately signed for Paris Saint-Germain.