Transfer Centre

Gerardo Martino: 'Lionel Messi could leave Barcelona'

By Shane Callaghan, Reporter | 20 November 2014

Ex-Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino finds it difficult to imagine the Catalans without Lionel Messi, but admits that a departure is "possible".

Former Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino has claimed that it would be difficult for Lionel Messi to leave the Catalans, but conceded that it is not impossible.

The 27-year-old hinted that his long-term future could lie away from Catalunya by revealing that his situation at Camp Nou is "complicated" recently.

The Argentine's father and agent was quick to play down the speculation, but Martino - now in charge of Argentina - believes that a departure could yet be on the cards for Messi.

"When you see the connection he has with Barca I think it would be very difficult for him to leave the club," Martino, who spent one year in charge of Barca, told reporters.

"However, when you see the options out there in the world, the big teams where he would fit in perfectly, then I think it's possible.

"But I definitely think he should be happy where he plays his football. I've never spoken to him about the issue and everyone does what is best for themselves."

Messi has scored over 350 goals in a trophy-laden career with the Spanish giants thus far, winning six La Liga crowns, four Copa del Reys and three Champions League titles.

He also won four successive Ballon d'Or awards until 2013, with Cristiano Ronaldo pipping him on that occasion.