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PSG sporting director: “I think Messi wanted to stay at Barcelona”

Paris Saint-Germain’s sporting director, Leonardo, has admitted what everyone already knew: Lionel Messi did not want to leave FC Barcelona.

“I think his idea was to stay in Barcelona. Honestly, it was clear to him that his desire was not to leave and perhaps finish his career there.“ Leonardo told Canal+.

Messi wanted to remain at Barcelona, for a reduced salary, but was ultimately told he would not be able to remain with the club. Then, he decided to join Paris in Ligue 1.

PSG had long been rumored to be making a move for the Argentine superstar, something Leonardo admitted to at least partially.