Former Barcelona legend Rivaldo has doubted Lionel Messi will ever leave the club for another side in Europe despite interest from Inter Milan.
The Argentine forward has often been linked with a move away from the Nou Camp, but has consistently reaffirmed his commitment.
Messi would be free to leave Barca at the end of any season from this summer after having a clause inserted into his contract.
The 32-year-old has also been at loggerheads with Barca chiefs in recent weeks regarding discussions over the playing squad taking pay cuts as a result of the coronavirus crisis.
Inter are reportedly working on a deal to take Messi to the San Siro in what would be a shock transfer, but even amid the tension, Rivaldo doesn’t see it happening.
(Image: REUTERS)
“Inter’s president Massimo Moratti said this week that he could bring Lionel Messi to the club and resume his personal clash with Cristiano Ronaldo in Italy, but as I’ve said before I don’t believe that the Argentinian would leave Barcelona for any other European club,” the Betfair ambassador said.
“I think he has no reasons to leave Spain, but if that happens one day then he could sign for a club from China or MLS, but only when he stops being so decisive for the Catalan outfit.
“Even if a move to Inter could be financially encouraging for the player, I suspect that wouldn’t be enough to convince him and I think this is more like propaganda from Inter’s president than a real possibility in the next transfer market.
(Image: Getty Images)
“Of course, Inter is a big European club that have recruited excellent players in the past and managed to win some important titles, but I can’t imagine Messi changing club while he is still at his best level at Barcelona.”
Inter wouldn’t be the only club lining up to welcome Messi through their doors should the six-time Ballon d’Or winner decide to call time on his Barca career.
There have also been suggestions Messi could reunite with former boss Pep Guardiola at Man City, but again Rivaldo feels that is little more than speculation.
He added: “There were also rumours about potential interest from Manchester City, but their manager Pep Guardiola considers Messi to be where he should be and is still playing at a high enough level to help Barcelona very much.
“So, to sum up I consider that these are just rumours and believe Messi should finish his career in Europe after representing just one club.
“If he does leave, then it will be to China or a north American club where he can enjoy a different environment with not as much pressure and competitiveness.”
