Lionel Messi to leave FC Barcelona due to La Liga financial and structural obstacles

Argentina striker Lionel Messi will leave Barcelona despite both parties having reached an agreement over a new contract, the La Liga club said.

Barcelona said in a statement that a deal between the club and Lionel Messi for a new contract had been reached but financial “obstacles” made it impossible for the player to remain with the club. LATEST NEWS | Leo #Messi will not continue with FC Barcelona "Despite FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi having reached an agreement and the clear intention of both parties to sign a new contract today, this cannot happen because of financial and structural obstacles (Spanish La Liga regulations)," Barca said in a statement.