Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, has been described as “classless” as his son continues to seek a Barcelona exit.
The Argentine signalled his desire to quit the Nou Camp in a move that shocked the world of football.
Jorge will take a lead role in transfer talks but does not universally have a great reputation when it comes to matters around the negotiating table.
A source has claimed that he believes in his own self importance.
“He can come across as self-important, as you would expect as the dad of the best player in the world,” they told The Athletic.
“Most dads of footballers are, but the way it was described to me, how he acts in meetings with the club over the years has been classless.
“Everyone knows who your son is, you don’t need to act like that.”
Another source has added that Jorge has had very little to do with Messi’s recent contract extensions.
Club president Josep Maria Bartomeu has taken a very hands on approach to the recent negotiations, which were signed with minimal fuss.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
“It was not a negotiation during his more recent contracts with Barca,” the source said.
“A couple of the contracts were not even questioned, they were simply put on the table to make him feel more important.”
Messi’s entourage had hoped he could quit the Catalan club for nothing as per a clause in his contract that allows him to leave for free.
The activation date has passed however and La Liga have since come out and said that the player’s release clause must be paid if he is to leave.
Manchester City are leading the race for his signature and would mean a reunion for Messi and Pep Guardiola.
