Social media erupts after Lionel Messi hands in transfer request
An FC Barcelona supporter sporting a jersey with the acronym of "Greatest of all Time" and number 10 of Barcelona's Argentinian forward Lionel Messi, looks through the gate of the club's headquarters in Barcelona, on August 25, 2020, following the announcement of Messi's desire to leave the team.
What you need to know:
- The 33-year-old Argentine made his debut for the club 16 years ago and remains the Catalans' all time goalscorer with 634 goals.
- He is also second on the all-time list for appearances, only behind another retired club legend - Xavi Hernandez.
Lionel Messi on Tuesday informed Barcelona that he wants to "unilaterally" terminate his contract with the Spanish giants.
The 33-year-old Argentine made his debut for the club 16 years ago and remains the Catalans' all time goalscorer with 634 goals. He is also second on the all-time list for appearances, only behind another retired club legend - Xavi Hernandez.
The news of Messi's transfer request created an instant buzz on social media.
Former Barcelona striker Gary Lineker weighed in on Twitter: "If Messi is to leave @FCBarcelona by activating a release clause, then I hope the club try to help, not hinder him. He’s been fiercely loyal and their greatest ever player. It would be terribly sad if it finished with a fight between the player and the club."
The president of Catalunya was already saying his goodbyes - thanking Messi.
Former Barca defender Carlos Puyol openly backed his former team-mate, tweeting: "Respect and admiration, Leo. All my support, friend."
Reports indicate that Messi could be on his way to Manchester City where he would unite with former boss Pep Guardiola or Paris Saint-Germain where he could also form a new partnership with Brazilian superstar Neymar.
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand joked that Chelsea manager, Frank Lampard, who has had a busy transfer window at the club already, might move for Messi.
Messi popularity cuts across sports, with the news coming as a shock to many. National Basketball clubs were not left behind.
Chicago Bulls posted a photo of the Argentina great holding their jersey and an emoji as a caption.
San Antonio Spurs also weighed in, appearing to suggest Messi should join Major League Soccer side San Antonio FC.
