Lionel Messi

[Magpie]

Leaving Barcelona, officially confirmed. I wonder where he will end up next.

[Vault Boy]

Quite a moment.

[Peevemor]

Leaving Barcelona, officially confirmed. I wonder where he will end up next.I'm more interested in how long it will take Haymaker to post his smilie.

[H18 SFR]

Surely not Man City now after they have just spent £100m on Grealish?

[Magpie]

Surely not Man City now after they have just spent £100m on Grealish?

They are apparently willing to spend at least another £100m on Kane. It could now be a situation of them choosing between Kane and Messi.

[Willis1875]

Where does he go now?City and Chelsea both looking for goalscorers.
If he values goals and outscoring Ronaldo in terms of career goals then the EPL probably isn’t the place for him

[Tambo]

Not linked with PSG before? Can't see many teams paying half a million a week for him.

[Lancs Harp]

I've heard Hearts.

[660]

I've heard Hearts.

Too big a club for him

[Ozyhibby]

PSG have to be favourites. He has lots of mates in that team and they can afford him.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[gbhibby]

Wouldn't get a game ahead of Boyle

[neil7908]

I wonder if he might just leave Europe now and wind down his career in the US. He's won everything he can win in Europe and now having hit a Copa America medal, there isn't much for him to achieve.

Imagine him alongside Mbappe and Neymar at PSG...

[vercol36]

It will be PSG, in what can safely be described as the 'dullest transfer in footballing history'

[SChibs]

Not for me. Too small and we shouldn't be signing players in their 30s.

[Haymaker]

:hyper

[Peevemor]

I'm more interested in how long it will take Haymaker to post his smilie.

15 posts.

He's slacking!

[Hibernia&Alba]

If he does finally leave this time, how many clubs can afford his wages? Man City, PSG? That's about it. Just watch him turn up at City with Pep :rolleyes:

[Hibernia&Alba]

:hyper

:faf:

[Haymaker]

15 posts.

He's slacking!

I was in a zoom meeting. Raging that work is getting in the way of posting :hyper on dot net.

Might have to quit work.

[Northernhibee]

Jack Ross points to Josh Doig being out the door just before this is announced.

I don't want to say that he had inside info and that it's a DONE DEAL but it's just too much of a coincidence.

Oh, and **** the Hearts.

[PatHead]

Could have made a difference tonight.

[lord bunberry]

I've heard Hearts.
He did say he’s always wanted to play with Andy Halliday.

[Hibernia&Alba]

Could have made a difference tonight.

Impact sub :agree:

[Scouse Hibee]

Pretty sure this is Barca trying to make a point about the finance restrictions, I reckon he will end up staying.

[Pretty Boy]

Pretty sure this is Barca trying to make a point about the finance restrictions, I reckon he will end up staying.

Yep.

We've had the Messi soap opera for the last 5 or 6 summers now. Last year I was repeatedly told he was 'definitely leaving' when I said he would end up staying and I don't think it will be much different this year.

Madrid and Barcelona are in open warfare with La Liga and this is just the latest power play. Laporta wants money from the league now, he wants more and he's challenging La Liga to try and continue selling their product to a €200m sponsor without it's most marketable player.

Messi's days at Barca are numbered but he won't play for another club in Europe. I think we'll see another year or 2 agreed in the coming weeks then a move to Miami or LA. The former being by far the most likely.

[BroxburnHibee]

He won't be going to City. Grealish just got the number 10 shirt. :greengrin

[DH1875]

He's in talks with PSG already. Reckon he will still stay at Barca but if PSG throw the millions at him, who knows.

[Hibby70]

https://mobile.twitter.com/HibernianFC/status/1423366815405776898

[Northernhibee]

https://youtu.be/-DUygOXvMBk

This is achingly beautiful. Bottom lip quivering stuff.

[SanFranHibs]

https://mobile.twitter.com/HibernianFC/status/1423366815405776898

Real tennis players know :flag:

[c31]

I think he's a greedy ****, he could play his last season for nothing and repay all the Barca fans. The money he makes on endorsements is eye watering enough just shows that the more they have the more they want!!

[calumhibee1]

https://youtu.be/-DUygOXvMBk

This is achingly beautiful. Bottom lip quivering stuff.

Great video.

An incredible story and an incredible career. It’s a shame he looks like he won’t end up a one club man. There’s something that bit more special about a player who stays at one club their whole career imo.

[HoboHarry]

[QUOTE=c31;664
Pretty much where I am at. Seriously, how much money has he made from Barcelona both directly and indirectly? I doubt he would be worried about his next meal if he spent the next two years playing for free. There is just no depth to the level of greed.

[The Modfather]

I think he's a greedy ****, he could play his last season for nothing and repay all the Barca fans. The money he makes on endorsements is eye watering enough just shows that the more they have the more they want!!

That’s a bit harsh is it not. Did he not take a 50% pay cut when he signed his new deal before it fell through? Football clubs rarely do anything solely for the greater good and only act in self interest. I’m sure Messi is comfortable that he has been value for money (in the world of football, not the real world) for what Barca have paid him over the years.

Barca’s debt issues far pre date Covid and aren’t Messi’s fault. Not sure why he is being held up to standards no other multi millionaire players or clubs are.

[007]

https://mobile.twitter.com/HibernianFC/status/1423366815405776898

Get in.

[Peevemor]

https://mobile.twitter.com/HibernianFC/status/1423366815405776898Excellent!

[MWHIBBIES]

I think he's a greedy ****, he could play his last season for nothing and repay all the Barca fans. The money he makes on endorsements is eye watering enough just shows that the more they have the more they want!!

Do you do your job for free?

I think his 700 goals means he doesnt owe them anything

[Since452]

I think he'll get found out in another league :wink:

[KingPat4]

Barcelona are responsible for the mess they are in, nothing to do with Messi being greedy. He has raised the profile of that club fivefold, hardly his fault if they have ****ed up.

[Paul1642]

Really Hope he doesn’t go to PSG. Best player in the world playing in France would be such a shame.

Hopefully a premiership club step in with an offer. Wages will be highly but Messi on a free transfer is never going to be too bad value for money.

Arsenal just spent £50 million on White from Brighton😂. Add in his wages and factor in the Sponsorship and shirt sales Messi would bring they would probably cost about the same over a 2-3 year period. No brainier for a club like Man U or Chelsea if they can temp him.

[Paul1642]

Barcelona are responsible for the mess they are in, nothing to do with Messi being greedy. He has raised the profile of that club fivefold, hardly his fault if they have ****ed up.

Never heard of them until Messi started playing 🙄

[neil7908]

I'm getting a bit sick of hearing about it now. What set Messi apart for me wasn't just his brilliance, but the contrast in attitude to the likes of Neymar and Ronaldo. He loved his club, played for the badge and didn't let ego get in the way.

I get Barca are in a mess and it's not his fault but he's handled things badly imo and not bothered where he ends up.

[Paul1642]

I'm getting a bit sick of hearing about it now. What set Messi apart for me wasn't just his brilliance, but the contrast in attitude to the likes of Neymar and Ronaldo. He loved his club, played for the badge and didn't let ego get in the way.

I get Barca are in a mess and it's not his fault but he's handled things badly imo and not bothered where he ends up.

Not sure I agree. The previous president didn’t treat him particularly fair given all he had done for the club when Messi wanted away from what he perceived to be a badly run club. Once some of those issues were resolved he agreed to stay on a 50% reduced salary which Barcelona couldn’t keep to due to being so badly run at the moment. Not really Messi’s fault IMO.

[WeeRussell]

I think he's a greedy ****, he could play his last season for nothing and repay all the Barca fans. The money he makes on endorsements is eye watering enough just shows that the more they have the more they want!!

He could play his last season for free but why should he? Thousands of footballers earn a lot more money than me but why should the very best of them not earn for a season just because you've decided he's greedy?

Messi isn't due Barca fans, or football anything, and never will be.

[WeeRussell]

Yep.

We've had the Messi soap opera for the last 5 or 6 summers now. Last year I was repeatedly told he was 'definitely leaving' when I said he would end up staying and I don't think it will be much different this year.

Madrid and Barcelona are in open warfare with La Liga and this is just the latest power play. Laporta wants money from the league now, he wants more and he's challenging La Liga to try and continue selling their product to a €200m sponsor without it's most marketable player.

Messi's days at Barca are numbered but he won't play for another club in Europe. I think we'll see another year or 2 agreed in the coming weeks then a move to Miami or LA. The former being by far the most likely.

I'm similar in that I remained fairly convinced he would stick around last year. However it didn't really cross my mind this time until you and Scouse mentioned it. I think it'll be for real this time and wouldn't be surprised if he chooses to play for PSG.

[HoboHarry]

He could play his last season for free but why should he? Thousands of footballers earn a lot more money than me but why should the very best of them not earn for a season just because you've decided he's greedy?

Messi isn't due Barca fans, or football anything, and never will be.
In normal times I would agree with you but right now Barcelona are in a financial hole and Messi has contributed to this. His salary has been absurd - from what I read he was being paid 4 or 5 times what even the great Xavi and Iniesta were being paid.

[GreenCastle]

Barca are a mess and have been for several years.

Some ridiculous transfer fees and wages.

Yes Messi was getting paid massive £ but Barca also made £ from him with shirt sales and tickets etc.

Neymar and Ronaldo also followed the ££ for moves.

I give Messi credit for staying as long - the Koeman appointment was a mess and they have serious debt issues so need to balance the books.

Surely will PSG or MLS but would expect it to be PSG with his friend Neymar.

[Northernhibee]

Do you do your job for free?

I think his 700 goals means he doesnt owe them anything

Exactly.

[Magpie]

Seems like he’s off to PSG.

[Scouse Hibee]

Will be announced on Tuesday by PSG at the Eiffel Tower.

[Magpie]

Donnarumma

Hakimi
Ramos
Marquinhos
Bernat

Wijnaldum
Herrera
Verratti

Messi
Mbappe
Neymar

Then you still have the likes of Navas, Kimpembe, Diallo, Paredes, Draxler, Di Maria, Gueye and Icardi. Can’t see past them for the Champions League.

[Hibs4185]

Not messi or Barcelona related but Real Madrid are in similar financial trouble, however I was reading they signed a boy last week and paid hik a £15 million signing on bonus and as part of the deal they paid fees of £10 million to his friends and family.

Absolutely bonkers

[Haymaker]

Not messi or Barcelona related but Real Madrid are in similar financial trouble, however I was reading they signed a boy last week and paid hik a £15 million signing on bonus and as part of the deal they paid fees of £10 million to his friends and family.

Absolutely bonkers

The government/banks will bail them out as per usual.

[MWHIBBIES]

Donnarumma

Hakimi
Ramos
Marquinhos
Bernat

Wijnaldum
Herrera
Verratti

Messi
Mbappe
Neymar

Then you still have the likes of Navas, Kimpembe, Diallo, Paredes, Draxler, Di Maria, Gueye and Icardi. Can’t see past them for the Champions League.

Would you say the quadruple was on?

[Northernhibee]

Seems like he’s off to PSG.

Depressing. An incredible career tarnished by a meaningless, soulless club.

[Since452]

Bit dissapointing if he goes to PSG. Not really a challenge

[flash]

PSG. How depressingly predictable.

[GreenCastle]

Donnarumma

Hakimi
Ramos
Marquinhos
Bernat

Wijnaldum
Herrera
Verratti

Messi
Mbappe
Neymar

Then you still have the likes of Navas, Kimpembe, Diallo, Paredes, Draxler, Di Maria, Gueye and Icardi. Can’t see past them for the Champions League.

PSG lost £250 million last year.

They need to get rid of some players for financial fair play.

Expect some players to leave.

Their annual salaries is around £400+ million - that’s x3 more than Lyon which is about 125 million.

PSG have their Qatar links and that meant only couple teams could afford him but he’s basically being bought by a state.

Will he go back to Argentina or MLS next…probably Argentina.

[Magpie]

Would you say the quadruple was on?

They should be winning each major trophy in France with that squad. I think they will win the Champions League this season if they do bring in Messi. Pochettino has to get it right.

[MWHIBBIES]

They should be winning each major trophy in France with that squad. I think they will win the Champions League this season if they do bring in Messi. Pochettino has to get it right.

Should stroll it domestically. A recurring issue in the CL was Neymars fitness, but with Messi now too, they should be unbeatable. Could see Simeone or Allegri managing a famous defensive win over them though.

[Callum_62]

Depressing. An incredible career tarnished by a meaningless, soulless club.If sure if they win they big trophies next year he won't care a jot

They were already a pretty good watch last year but next season there squad will be incredible

To be honest only clubs with mega money could afford him

I'm guessing lots of money = soulless?

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[Andy74]

If sure if they win they big trophies next year he won't care a jot

They were already a pretty good watch last year but next season there squad will be incredible

To be honest only clubs with mega money could afford him

I'm guessing lots of money = soulless?

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Looks like about £100 million outlay for 2 years.

Given some of the fees and wages that some average players are going for then I’d imagine that a fair number of teams could reach that seeing as he’s free.

It is a pretty short term move though with no value in him when it is done.

[Northernhibee]

If sure if they win they big trophies next year he won't care a jot

They were already a pretty good watch last year but next season there squad will be incredible

To be honest only clubs with mega money could afford him

I'm guessing lots of money = soulless?

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I realise that Barcelona are no angels but your Man City, PSG style clubs who get bought over by oil tycoons who get rich from destroying our planet and just buy everyone in sight are far, far worse.

I’d have loved to have seen him as a one club man.

[neil7908]

I realise that Barcelona are no angels but your Man City, PSG style clubs who get bought over by oil tycoons who get rich from destroying our planet and just buy everyone in sight are far, far worse.

I’d have loved to have seen him as a one club man.

Agreed.

[vercol36]

I realise that Barcelona are no angels but your Man City, PSG style clubs who get bought over by oil tycoons who get rich from destroying our planet and just buy everyone in sight are far, far worse.

I’d have loved to have seen him as a one club man.


Can see where you're coming from, but Barcelona are almost equally as soulless imo. Would have loved to have seen him go and play for a small club somewhere, for crap wages.

[jacomo]

Can see where you're coming from, but Barcelona are almost equally as soulless imo. Would have loved to have seen him go and play for a small club somewhere, for crap wages.


Barca have still not rescinded their desire to join Real Madrid’s European Super League.

You are right: they’ve lost their soul.

I’m personally a big fan of players who drop down the leagues as they get older, just for the love of playing.

A 40-something Messi still huffing and puffing around the lower leagues somewhere would be cool. But you’ve got to accept that players (and managers) will hold onto the big time as long as they can. Criticising someone like Guardiola because he’s never managed somewhere like Chesterfield is a bit ridiculous imo.

[neil7908]

Should stroll it domestically. A recurring issue in the CL was Neymars fitness, but with Messi now too, they should be unbeatable. Could see Simeone or Allegri managing a famous defensive win over them though.

I agree with the last line. They are looking closer than ever but I still think they are going to be dodgy at the back. Ramos has had an incredible career but he's not the player he was.

And how the manager, especially someone like Poch who doesn't have a lot of experience, will balance all the ego and trying to get the right blend in the team will be fascinating to see.

I actually think Wjinaldam might be huge for them. They need someone unglamorous to do the leg work in midfield and let the stars shine. Him alongside Veratti looks tasty and gives them a bit more balance.

They will be fun to watch that's for sure.

[Hibernia&Alba]

PSG are going for the old Real Madrid model of assembling the Harlem Globetrotters. The French league isn't strong and they should win it by miles next season. They somehow managed to blow it last season, but seem determined to ensure it doesn't happen again.

[BroxburnHibee]

Leo in tears at his press conference. If he's a free agent why does it feel like it's a Barca staged event?

Think they're trying to force La Liga to back down?

[AugustaHibs]

Leo in tears at his press conference. If he's a free agent why does it feel like it's a Barca staged event?

Think they're trying to force La Liga to back down?

No, I think it’s because of who he is and what he’s done for the club. He wouldn’t want to leave without speaking about it before

[DH1875]

The government/banks will bail them out as per usual.

You mean like the way the Catalan government/banks and businesses usually bail out Barcalona🤔

[DH1875]

Not messi or Barcelona related but Real Madrid are in similar financial trouble, however I was reading they signed a boy last week and paid hik a £15 million signing on bonus and as part of the deal they paid fees of £10 million to his friends and family.

Absolutely bonkers

Barcelona creeting cause they can't sign Messi. They've just signed Sergio Aguero, Eric Garcia, Memphis Repay and paid 9 MILLION for Emerson from Betis. Give Messi their wages FFS. Horrible club. At least Real didn't try and hide what they are.

[Hibs90]

****ing sickening that he's going to end up at PSG.



Messi: “(PSG) is a possibility, but sincerely as of today there is nothing agreed with anyone. When the statement came out, I had many calls, various clubs were interested. But I have nothing closed yet. But we are talking.”

[lugz]

Really don't get this thing that's going about at the moment where people are like don't feel sorry for messi look how much money he has.
For me it's nothing to do with money, he could offer to play for free and still wouldn't be allowed. He's made the single greatest contribution if club football history, has built a life and family in barca of course he's going to be emotional.

[JohnM1875]

Really don't get this thing that's going about at the moment where people are like don't feel sorry for messi look how much money he has.
For me it's nothing to do with money, he could offer to play for free and still wouldn't be allowed. He's made the single greatest contribution if club football history, has built a life and family in barca of course he's going to be emotional.

I totally agree, but didn't he try and force move away last summer?

[lugz]

I totally agree, but didn't he try and force move away last summer?

Honestly can't remember. The politics involved at barca and Spanish football as a whole are unreal so wouldn't surprise me.

[MWHIBBIES]

I totally agree, but didn't he try and force move away last summer?

Yes he did.

He no doubt loves Barcelona but I think it's been a while since he played for love. He was paid silly money and was wanting new contracts every 18 months. What was it, about 1 million a week?

[Since90+2]

Yes he did.

He no doubt loves Barcelona but I think it's been a while since he played for love. He was paid silly money and was wanting new contracts every 18 months. What was it, about 1 million a week?

He was on £120 million a year at Barcelona. So over £2 million a week.

[DH1875]

Really don't get this thing that's going about at the moment where people are like don't feel sorry for messi look how much money he has.
For me it's nothing to do with money, he could offer to play for free and still wouldn't be allowed. He's made the single greatest contribution if club football history, has built a life and family in barca of course he's going to be emotional.

Erm...why wouldn't he be allowed to play for free?

[MWHIBBIES]

Erm...why wouldn't he be allowed to play for free?

They can't register anyone until they get down to 70% wages to turnover. It's currently 95% without Messi. 70% is the new cap

[DH1875]

They can't register anyone until they get down to 70% wages to turnover. It's currently 95% without Messi. 70% is the new cap

So what about the 5 guys they already signed this summer?

[MWHIBBIES]

So what about the 5 guys they already signed this summer?

Thats also a problem. Although none of them are on Messi wages. It's Griezmann, umtiti, coutinho, pjanic and dembele that are the big problem.

[DH1875]

Thats also a problem. Although none of them are on Messi wages. It's Griezmann, umtiti, coutinho, pjanic and dembele that are the big problem.

Yeah but your saying he couldn't sign and play for free yet they been allowed to sign these guys who will all be on a decent wage. Doesn't make sense.

[Pagan Hibernia]

Barca have still not rescinded their desire to join Real Madrid’s European Super League.

You are right: they’ve lost their soul.

I’m personally a big fan of players who drop down the leagues as they get older, just for the love of playing.

A 40-something Messi still huffing and puffing around the lower leagues somewhere would be cool. But you’ve got to accept that players (and managers) will hold onto the big time as long as they can. Criticising someone like Guardiola because he’s never managed somewhere like Chesterfield is a bit ridiculous imo.

absolutely right. The arse has well and truly fallen out of that club.

remember when they used to be Europe’s darlings? The poster boys of supporter ownership, the team that wouldn’t even tarnish their shirt with a corporate sponsor. Look at the absolute state of them now.

[Haymaker]

Yeah but your saying he couldn't sign and play for free yet they been allowed to sign these guys who will all be on a decent wage. Doesn't make sense.

Pretty sure they haven't been registered either yet.

[MWHIBBIES]

Yeah but your saying he couldn't sign and play for free yet they been allowed to sign these guys who will all be on a decent wage. Doesn't make sense.

It makes perfect sense, the new signings haven't been registered either as far as I know. Signing a player is different from registering them.

[DH1875]

It makes perfect sense, the new signings haven't been registered either as far as I know. Signing a player is different from registering them.

They have been playing preseason and have squad numbers so no, it doesn't make sense. They paid 9 MILLION for one of them.....you think Betis are giving them that back?

[MWHIBBIES]

They have been playing preseason and have squad numbers so no, it doesn't make sense. They paid 9 MILLION for one of them.....you think Betis are giving them that back?

Anyone can play pre season. It's not a real match. They have signed them. They can't register them. There is a difference. It's pretty basic to understand. Look up Adrien Silvas transfer to Leicester. Signed him, wasn't registered in time. Transfer still happened but he couldn't play.

They will get them registered because it will get sorted out. But it's pretty obvious the new signings aren't the problem here.

[660]

Given he doesn’t really need the cash, he should go to a relatively guff club in an attempt to transform them but he’s no maradona.

[The Spaceman]

End of an era. Whilst it won’t feel right seeing him in anything other than a Barca shirt, it will be good to see him back in a good and competitive team again. He’s carried Barca a stupid amount in recent seasons. Being at a top club again will allow him to really shine in the spotlight again and gently remind us all, if we needed it, he is the undisputed greatest footballer to ever play on this earth.

[jacomo]

Given he doesn’t really need the cash, he should go to a relatively guff club in an attempt to transform them but he’s no maradona.


Nope. He’s better.

[Since452]

Say what you want about Ronaldo but at least he's never gone to ****ing PSG

[Pagan Hibernia]

Say what you want about Ronaldo but at least he's never gone to ****ing PSG

Man Utd, Real Madrid, and juventus are as contemptible as anyone else

[Is It On....]

Leaving Barcelona, officially confirmed. I wonder where he will end up next.

The "big" team? 😂

[Greencore]

Andy Murray confirmed hibs on twitter. Good enough for me.

[heidtheba]

Given he doesn’t really need the cash, he should go to a relatively guff club in an attempt to transform them but he’s no maradona.

I know it's not football, but Ayrton Senna apparently said he'd race for Minardi in F1 once he'd won his fifth World Championship (often they were backmarkers, midfield at best). Senna had a good relationship with Giancarlo Minardi and it has been spoken about often. Would be great to see stuff like this happen in other sports.

https://www.wi77iams.com/could-ayrton-senna-have-ended-his-career-at-minardi/

[ian cruise]

I know it's not football, but Ayrton Senna apparently said he'd race for Minardi in F1 once he'd won his fifth World Championship (often they were backmarkers, midfield at best). Senna had a good relationship with Giancarlo Minardi and it has been spoken about often. Would be great to see stuff like this happen in other sports.

https://www.wi77iams.com/could-ayrton-senna-have-ended-his-career-at-minardi/

Given how much players at the top have earned in their career (more than they'll ever spend) I am not sure why more don't do this. I'd have thought the joy and adulation from the fans who couldn't believe you're there would be a massive reward, as well as the feeling you're actually making a tangible difference to a team.

It would only take a few to do it then many others would follow suit.

[Eyrie]

Isn't that what Charlie Adam has done?

[Iggy Pope]

Can see where you're coming from, but Barcelona are almost equally as soulless imo. Would have loved to have seen him go and play for a small club somewhere, for crap wages.

Newells Old Boys are his boyhood club I think. That would’ve been nice.

[heidtheba]

Given how much players at the top have earned in their career (more than they'll ever spend) I am not sure why more don't do this. I'd have thought the joy and adulation from the fans who couldn't believe you're there would be a massive reward, as well as the feeling you're actually making a tangible difference to a team.

It would only take a few to do it then many others would follow suit.


That's where I am. Surely the massive egos of some top sports people would (you'd think) push them into a situation where they could say, "the team did x y x amazing things only because I was in them", rather than "I was in an amazing team and we did x,y,z".

[whiskyhibby]

Barca €1.1 Billion ! In debt, wonder how they get around UEFA Financial fair play rules, or is that just a whitewash

[StevesFamau5]

At the end of all the back and forth about what he "should" do, what he will probably do and what he's done. He is still IMO the greatest player in the history of association football.

Maradona, Pele, Zidane, Di Stefano, Puskas, Ronaldinho, Ronaldo (Portugal), Ronaldo (Brazil), Best and Eusebio all phenomenal players with amazing records and stats. But I still 100% believe that there is no player quite like Messi, I don't know if there ever will be.

Whatever he does next will be interesting either way.

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[Andy74]

Given how much players at the top have earned in their career (more than they'll ever spend) I am not sure why more don't do this. I'd have thought the joy and adulation from the fans who couldn't believe you're there would be a massive reward, as well as the feeling you're actually making a tangible difference to a team.

It would only take a few to do it then many others would follow suit.

Used to happen a bit more before you got the leagues in the Far East and US in particular offering more lucrative ways to end their career.

Take Sauzee for example - just wouldn't happen now that he would come to Hibs, he'd have ended his career in China or the MLS these days.

[Radium]

https://youtu.be/g6AOWHsO1Ck

First I had seen of what I am presuming is FFP in Spain


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[FilipinoHibs]

I am not a huge fan of Barcelona and their overpaying of players and running up of huge debt. My mother's family fought Franco and were hounded out of Spain. But I do feel sorry for him. Barcelona is all he knows and he looks genuinely upset at having to leave. France is ideal where he will still be able to look good for a couple of seasons.

[calumhibee1]

I am not a huge fan of Barcelona and their overpaying of players and running up of huge debt. My mother's family fought Franco and were hounded out of Spain. But I do feel sorry for him. Barcelona is all he knows and he looks genuinely upset at having to leave. France is ideal where he will still be able to look good for a couple of seasons.

Still look good for a couple of seasons? He’s the current best player in the world, I don’t think he needs to go to a poorer league in the hope of still hoping he’ll look good for 2 seasons!

[JeMeSouviens]

Who else are PSG signing this summer?

I'm not convinced it's a great move for either party. It's all a bit "Galacticos". PSG weren't exactly short of creative attackers.

Leo would be better off at City with Pep if he wants that last Champions League, imo.

[MWHIBBIES]

Still look good for a couple of seasons? He’s the current best player in the world, I don’t think he needs to go to a poorer league in the hope of still hoping he’ll look good for 2 seasons!

Indeed. Had Barcelona on his back last season.

[Danderhall Hibs]

I thought it was funny him doing all the crying and that only a year after he tried to force a move. I think they activated a clause to make him stay?

[heretoday]

He should go to BooHooohemians.

[FilipinoHibs]

Still look good for a couple of seasons? He’s the current best player in the world, I don’t think he needs to go to a poorer league in the hope of still hoping he’ll look good for 2 seasons!

Easy to look good in La Liga where the top two clubs take the bulk of the TV money. So teams outside top two are much weaker than in England where there is a more even distribution of money. CR7 proved it when he was in Spain and matched Messi's goals per game ratio. Messi would not do as well in England, Germany or Italy. Messi best player in world but only just won his first major national team title and over 6 years since a UCL win. He should test himself in a top league if you think he us that good. Bet he won't.

[calumhibee1]

Easy to look good in La Liga where the top two clubs take the bulk of the TV money. So teams outside top two are much weaker than in England where there is a more even distribution of money. CR7 proved it when he was in Spain and matched Messi's goals per game ratio. Messi would not do as well in England, Germany or Italy. Messi best player in world but only just won his first major national team title and over 6 years since a UCL win. He should test himself in a top league if you think he us that good. Bet he won't.

He’s the current ballon d’or holder. He literally is the best player in the world.

Since Messi has started playing Spain have provided by a mile the most European trophy winners compared to other leagues.

The idea that it’s not a good league is laughable by near enough every measure. La Liga has won 18 European trophies between 5 different teams in the period Messi has played there. That’s more than 1 a season. 10 of them won by teams outside the traditional top two that you seem to think are the only two worth their salt.

[AugustaHibs]

He’s the current ballon d’or holder. He literally is the best player in the world.

Since Messi has started playing Spain have provided by a mile the most European trophy winners compared to other leagues.

The idea that it’s not a good league is laughable by near enough every measure.

It has regressed in the last couple years though and is only going to get worse.

Look at the state of the big two and compare the popularity with that of the premier league.

Very soon, if it isn’t already, the premier league is going to be ‘the super league’

[calumhibee1]

It has regressed in the last couple years though and is only going to get worse.

Look at the state of the big two and compare the popularity with that of the premier league.

Very soon, if it isn’t already, the premier league is going to be ‘the super league’

In future it looks like it could regress definitely.

Over Messi’s career though it has been the best league in the world. The dominance in Europe of Spanish teams makes that pretty clear imo.

[AugustaHibs]

In future it looks like it could regress definitely.

Over Messi’s career though it has been the best league in the world. The dominance in Europe of Spanish teams makes that pretty clear imo.

I’m not doubting that all, you’re correct. But barca have been awful for about 3/4 years. Imagine where they would’ve been if messi left in 2017 or something

[hibsbollah]

PSG showed last season that regardless of their relative advantage, other teams in France can challenge them. Marseille have spent well, Nice are improving, Lyon and Monaco are improving, and Lille are the champions and kept most of their team. They are obvious favorites with Messi added but it’s about the team structure, it’s not fantasy football. they are less than the sum of their parts, which is why they always screw it up in the champions league. I agree that Wilnaldum is a great signing, and will do Verattis job when he’s inevitably missing. But we’ve been here before. No chemistry, no espirit de corps. I predict they’ll win ligue 1 by a nose and fail in the champions league again.

[DH1875]

Easy to look good in La Liga where the top two clubs take the bulk of the TV money. So teams outside top two are much weaker than in England where there is a more even distribution of money. CR7 proved it when he was in Spain and matched Messi's goals per game ratio. Messi would not do as well in England, Germany or Italy. Messi best player in world but only just won his first major national team title and over 6 years since a UCL win. He should test himself in a top league if you think he us that good. Bet he won't.

I'm not one to defend Messi or Barcalona but.......you are aware that Atletico Madrid won the league last year. This idea that all the other teams in La Liga are crap is just nonsense.

[Spudster]

Yeah but your saying he couldn't sign and play for free yet they been allowed to sign these guys who will all be on a decent wage. Doesn't make sense.

Spanish law means a pay cut can only be 50% of current salary apparently. Seems odd as he is now a free agent so can play for whatever they agree on surely?

[calumhibee1]

Spanish law means a pay cut can only be 50% of current salary apparently. Seems odd as he is now a free agent so can play for whatever they agree on surely?

Regardless of that fact, they are banned from registering more players until their wage bill comes down. The fact Messi could play for free would still be impossible because they couldn’t even register players not drawing a wage.

[jacomo]

Easy to look good in La Liga where the top two clubs take the bulk of the TV money. So teams outside top two are much weaker than in England where there is a more even distribution of money. CR7 proved it when he was in Spain and matched Messi's goals per game ratio. Messi would not do as well in England, Germany or Italy. Messi best player in world but only just won his first major national team title and over 6 years since a UCL win. He should test himself in a top league if you think he us that good. Bet he won't.


Ha! So Messi has to prove himself in a league of your choosing to prove he’s a good player?!

What utter nonsense.

[jacomo]

I thought it was funny him doing all the crying and that only a year after he tried to force a move. I think they activated a clause to make him stay?


That presser was mawkish and ridiculous theatre. His wife and kids on the front row, and the round of applause at the end?

This was Barca saying to the Spanish league: “Look! Now you’ve made Messi cry!”

Never mind the chronic mismanagement that has got the club into this hole.

[FilipinoHibs]

I'm not one to defend Messi or Barcalona but.......you are aware that Atletico Madrid won the league last year. This idea that all the other teams in La Liga are crap is just nonsense.

I said weaker and easier to play in. CR7 proved that.

[FilipinoHibs]

Ha! So Messi has to prove himself in a league of your choosing to prove he’s a good player?!

What utter nonsense.

You are taking nonsense again.

[TheSouthMoroccan]

If he loves them that much and given his no doubt healthy bank balance, why not play for them for free. No moving his wife and kids away and he gets to play for and repay the club he apparently loves. If it was me and Hibs, that's what I'd be doing :greengrin

[Just Alf]

If he loves them that much and given his no doubt healthy bank balance, why not play for them for free. No moving his wife and kids away and he gets to play for and repay the club he apparently loves. If it was me and Hibs, that's what I'd be doing :greengrinThe new financial rules means he can't even sign up as a 'free volunteer' ...... on the other hand, WE don't have that restriction :greengrin

[calumhibee1]

I said weaker and easier to play in. CR7 proved that.

In what way did he prove that? :confused:

Absolutely everything would suggest La Liga was in fact the strongest league over the period Messi and Ronaldo played in it.

Were the teams better than any other league? Miles more European trophies from any other league spread across more teams than any other league would suggest yes.

Were the individual players better than any other league?

33 of the available 48 ballon d’or top 3 places would suggest yes. You can even remove Messi and Ronaldo and La Liga still had 13 of the 48 available places since Messi broke through. In that period there’s been 7 English based players. You can remove Messi and his teammates and there’s still 13 La Liga entries in that list, and that’s just the players he was competing against.

The best players played in Spain. The best teams played in Spain. To suggest that any other league over the span of Messi’s career has been stronger is simply laughable.

[TheSouthMoroccan]

The new financial rules means he can't even sign up as a 'free volunteer' ...... on the other hand, WE don't have that restriction :greengrin

Good point. I'll get Mr Murray on the case...again :greengrin

[DH1875]

I said weaker and easier to play in. CR7 proved that.

That much easier that Atletico won it?

[DH1875]

I said weaker and easier to play in. CR7 proved that.

Ronaldo has scored something like 100 goals in 130 games for Juve. Italian football must be fish as well then.

[worcesterhibby]

Messi’s record at marking opposition players at corners is shocking…question…can anyone on here honestly say Messi is better at defensive clearing headers than Daz ? No, thought not, and Daz isn’t even first choice at the back for Hibs. How can he be the best player in the world if Hibs substitutes are better than him at some football skills ? :wink:

[hibbysam]

In what way did he prove that? :confused:

Absolutely everything would suggest La Liga was in fact the strongest league over the period Messi and Ronaldo played in it.

Were the teams better than any other league? Miles more European trophies from any other league spread across more teams than any other league would suggest yes.

Were the individual players better than any other league?

33 of the available 48 ballon d’or top 3 places would suggest yes. You can even remove Messi and Ronaldo and La Liga still had 13 of the 48 available places since Messi broke through. In that period there’s been 7 English based players. You can remove Messi and his teammates and there’s still 13 La Liga entries in that list, and that’s just the players he was competing against.

The best players played in Spain. The best teams played in Spain. To suggest that any other league over the span of Messi’s career has been stronger is simply laughable.

In a nutshell. It’s lazy, because the EPL is thrown in our face at every turn the old ‘stoke on a cold wet winters evening’ comments get banded about. It’s brutal to think lower half of a Premiership is better than a lower half La Liga.

Let’s also not forget that having never played in England, he’s still 4th (I think) on the list of goals against the ‘top 6’.

[Onceinawhile]

Easy to look good in La Liga where the top two clubs take the bulk of the TV money. So teams outside top two are much weaker than in England where there is a more even distribution of money. CR7 proved it when he was in Spain and matched Messi's goals per game ratio. Messi would not do as well in England, Germany or Italy. Messi best player in world but only just won his first major national team title and over 6 years since a UCL win. He should test himself in a top league if you think he us that good. Bet he won't.

Exactly, which is why man u were able to steamroller villareal in the europa league.

[Centre Hawf]

Chat coming out of Spain that Barcelona are currently making one last attempt to be able to keep him. What a circus this is going to become.

[MWHIBBIES]

Easy to look good in La Liga where the top two clubs take the bulk of the TV money. So teams outside top two are much weaker than in England where there is a more even distribution of money. CR7 proved it when he was in Spain and matched Messi's goals per game ratio. Messi would not do as well in England, Germany or Italy. Messi best player in world but only just won his first major national team title and over 6 years since a UCL win. He should test himself in a top league if you think he us that good. Bet he won't.
Wow.

Have you seen him vs English sides in Europe? He does alright. 34 games, 26 goals. Vs the top 6. Imagine him vs Fulham and Newcastle.

[FilipinoHibs]

Wow.

Have you seen him vs English sides in Europe? He does alright. 34 games, 26 goals. Vs the top 6. Imagine him vs Fulham and Newcastle.

That was in the days of having virtually the whole Spanish world cup winning team around him. Not been so good in recent years when these players were all gone. Man U in late offer for him. He should take it according to you as would have an easy time in EPL. He's not won the UCL for 7 years. I wonder why.

[calumhibee1]

That was in the days of having virtually the whole Spanish world cup winning team around him. Not been so good in recent years when these players were all gone. Man U in late offer for him. He should take it according to you as would have an easy time in EPL. He's not won the UCL for 7 years. I wonder why.

:faf:

Since that team started to get broken up Barcelona have played English teams 12 times.

They’ve won 8, drawn 2, lost 2. Messi has scored 16 goals in those 12 games.

Again, by every possible measure, what you’ve said couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact his record against English teams individually is even better since he didn’t have the Spanish World Cup winning team around him.

[Sylar]

Sky Sports reporting that he's signed a 2 year deal with PSG.

[hibbysam]

That was in the days of having virtually the whole Spanish world cup winning team around him. Not been so good in recent years when these players were all gone. Man U in late offer for him. He should take it according to you as would have an easy time in EPL. He's not won the UCL for 7 years. I wonder why.

Spanish sides have still won 50% of the titles since he last won it, that tells me their teams have still been as strong.

Even if you feel the bottom of La Liga is very weak, the majority of his goals have come against the top 5 sides (Sevilla, Atleti, Valencia, Athletic and Real).

[Gloucester Hibs]

That was in the days of having virtually the whole Spanish world cup winning team around him. Not been so good in recent years when these players were all gone. Man U in late offer for him. He should take it according to you as would have an easy time in EPL. He's not won the UCL for 7 years. I wonder why.

Signed a 2 year deal with PSG

[Callum_62]

https://twitter.com/CrewsMat19/status/1424381183094362119?s=19

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[MWHIBBIES]

That was in the days of having virtually the whole Spanish world cup winning team around him. Not been so good in recent years when these players were all gone. Man U in late offer for him. He should take it according to you as would have an easy time in EPL. He's not won the UCL for 7 years. I wonder why.

Not true at all. Suggest you actually go and look up some of the things you are claiming, because they're well off.

The xavi/iniesta carrying Messi thing is a hilarious myth. Suarez assisted him much more than either of them.

[FilipinoHibs]

The unequal distribution of TV money means La Liga less competive outside the top teams. Why the goal ratios for Messi and CR7 were high in Spain.

https://www.danielgeey.com/post/football-broadcasting-deals-across-the-top-5-european-leagues/

[calumhibee1]

The unequal distribution of TV money means La Liga less competive outside the top teams. Why the goal ratios for Messi and CR7 were high in Spain.

https://www.danielgeey.com/post/football-broadcasting-deals-across-the-top-5-european-leagues/

So why were their goals ratios so high in Europe? Their ratios are much the same in terms of domestic goals v European goals. Were the English teams etc not competitive enough either?

The distribution of tv money doesn’t seem to have stopped other Spanish teams being highly successful in Europe either. It also doesn’t seem to have stopped Atletico Madrid winning the league twice over the last 10 years.

If their is a suggestion that there’s been a lack of competitiveness that’s lead to Messi and Ronaldo’s goals record I’d suggest that the teams they’ve faced in Europe have been every bit as big a part of that. That would suggest to me they’re just in fact incredible players who have played for incredible teams in an incredible league.

[Danderhall Hibs]

See he got over the distress quickly and signed a 2 year deal with PSG.

[hibbysam]

The unequal distribution of TV money means La Liga less competive outside the top teams. Why the goal ratios for Messi and CR7 were high in Spain.

https://www.danielgeey.com/post/football-broadcasting-deals-across-the-top-5-european-leagues/

The top 5 teams he has scored against are the top 5 sides outside of Barcelona. He’s scored plenty in European and international football as well as destroying all the top English sides. Your argument has more holes than Barcelona’s finances these days.

[Callum_62]

The unequal distribution of TV money means La Liga less competive outside the top teams. Why the goal ratios for Messi and CR7 were high in Spain.

https://www.danielgeey.com/post/football-broadcasting-deals-across-the-top-5-european-leagues/Really, that's why they were so high in Spain?

Nothing to do with being easily the best 2 players in the world over the last 10-15 years

Madness to downgrade how downright brilliant both are

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[Cat Stanton]

See he got over the distress quickly and signed a 2 year deal with PSG.

Obviously he couldn't stay at Barcelona for less money 'cos he must be really, really broke.

How depressing.

[calumhibee1]

Obviously he couldn't stay at Barcelona for less money 'cos he must be really, really broke.

How depressing.

He couldn’t have stayed at Barcelona had he decided to play for free. They can’t register players, even if these players earn £0 a week.

He took a 50% pay cut initially and then took a further 50% off of that to try and make the deal work. The league blocked the signing.

[Cat Stanton]

He couldn’t have stayed at Barcelona had he decided to play for free. They can’t register players, even if these players earn £0 a week.

He took a 50% pay cut initially and then took a further 50% off of that to try and make the deal work. The league blocked the signing.

Ah, ok. Thanks for explaining. And Lionel, if you're logged in, apologies for the slanderous post.

[Dmas]

Whilst understanding the whole earn as much as you can whilst you can for football players Im still a little surprised he hasn’t went back to Argentina gave his boyhood club the last 3/4 years of his career, PSG although earning a bucket load he could and probably will play against barca at some stage.

[Danderhall Hibs]

Ah, ok. Thanks for explaining. And Lionel, if you're logged in, apologies for the slanderous post.

I think it’s libel. But as you say hopefully he doesn’t see this post.

[SteveHFC]

Whilst understanding the whole earn as much as you can whilst you can for football players Im still a little surprised he hasn’t went back to Argentina gave his boyhood club the last 3/4 years of his career, PSG although earning a bucket load he could and probably will play against barca at some stage.

Can maybe see him back in Argentina after his PSG contract ends.

[Pagan Hibernia]

It’s failure for PSG if they don’t win the champions league at least once in the next two seasons

[Pagan Hibernia]

Can maybe see him back in Argentina after his PSG contract ends.

would be nice to see. Hopefully at home with Newells rather than Boca or River

[Sudds_1]

would be nice to see. Hopefully at home with Newells rather than Boca or River

Reoprts suggest america in beckhams old team...

[HoboHarry]

It’s failure for PSG if they don’t win the champions league at least once in the next two seasons
I'll be a little surprised if Messi stays in France for two years....

[Sir David Gray]

I'm sure the £25 million signing on fee he's due from PSG and the £480,000 per week, after tax, that he'll be paid for the next 2 years will help him overcome the trauma he experienced last week.

[MWHIBBIES]

Whilst understanding the whole earn as much as you can whilst you can for football players Im still a little surprised he hasn’t went back to Argentina gave his boyhood club the last 3/4 years of his career, PSG although earning a bucket load he could and probably will play against barca at some stage.

I'm pretty sure he has said living in Argentina could pose a security risk to his family that he doesn't want to take. Might be wrong but I'm sure I've read that. There have been many high profile kidnappings in South America, including football players families in the last 10 years or so.

[MWHIBBIES]

I'm sure the £25 million signing on fee he's due from PSG and the £480,000 per week, after tax, that he'll be paid for the next 2 years will help him overcome the trauma he experienced last week.

Yeah, money cures everything. Rich people can't have any mental health issues.

[Sir David Gray]

Yeah, money cures everything. Rich people can't have any mental health issues.

Of course they can, what a strange reply.

[DH1875]

The unequal distribution of TV money means La Liga less competive outside the top teams. Why the goal ratios for Messi and CR7 were high in Spain.

https://www.danielgeey.com/post/football-broadcasting-deals-across-the-top-5-european-leagues/

That doesn't explain Ronaldos record in Italy. Like I said earlier, 100 goals in 130 games......

[DH1875]

Can maybe see him back in Argentina after his PSG contract ends.

I've been telling everyone on here for months that he is going to Miami in 2 years. Where have you been 😉.

[MWHIBBIES]

Of course they can, what a strange reply.

It's strange to suggest his new contract will prevent him being upset about leaving. It's pretty obvious him moving isn't greed related at all.

[Sir David Gray]

It's strange to suggest his new contract will prevent him being upset about leaving. It's pretty obvious him moving isn't greed related at all.

I personally wouldn't describe being upset at leaving a football team as a mental health issue but never mind.

Happy to leave it there.

[MWHIBBIES]

I personally wouldn't describe being upset at leaving a football team as a mental health issue but never mind.

Happy to leave it there.

Up rooting your life of 20 years based on a 3rd parties decision overnight? I'd say that might cause a little sadness.

[DH1875]

That was in the days of having virtually the whole Spanish world cup winning team around him. Not been so good in recent years when these players were all gone. Man U in late offer for him. He should take it according to you as would have an easy time in EPL. He's not won the UCL for 7 years. I wonder why.

What are you on about. The world cup squad had 23 players in it. Of the 23 only 6 of them played for Barcelona and 2 of them were Pedro and Valdes.

[EI255]

Difficult to get exc about LM now. Best days past him.

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[MWHIBBIES]

Difficult to get exc about LM now. Best days past him.

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He's 34 and scored 38 goals last season. Maybe football isn't for you if he's not exciting.

Aside from ronaldo, most other greats were on a beach at that age.

[Dalianwanda]

Up rooting your life of 20 years based on a 3rd parties decision overnight? I'd say that might cause a little sadness.

He wanted to leave them last year so it’s not like the thought of moving hand to crossed his mind. Contract with PSG was agreed pretty quickly so i’d be surprised if it was an overnight decision.

[MWHIBBIES]

He wanted to leave them last year so it’s not like the thought of moving hand to crossed his mind. Contract with PSG was agreed pretty quickly so i’d be surprised if it was an overnight decision.

A year is a long time to be fair. And even if he decision had been his, it wouldn't have been easy.

[Sir David Gray]

Up rooting your life of 20 years based on a 3rd parties decision overnight? I'd say that might cause a little sadness.

He was prepared to leave them for free just 12 months ago and was blocked from doing so, so I'm not quite buying that to be honest.

I'll respectfully disagree with the suggestion that leaving Barcelona has caused Messi any mental health issues and stick by my assertion that receiving almost £500,000 every single week, after tax, for the next 2 years plus a £25 million signing on fee may be enough to put a smile back on his face on this occasion, whilst also recognising that this money alone will not preclude him from suffering mental health issues at some point in his life.

[Since452]

Probably a good way for Messi to top up his career totals. That will be the only question mark on Messi compared to Ronaldo in years to come.

[GreenCastle]

I could see him maybe going to Barca when he’s done at PSG for a farewell season.

Then Argentina or MLS maybe…

Some reports say PSG will implode in next few seasons with the money being spent and the losses.

If they don’t win champions league now it will be a massive shock. Though City with Grealish and probably Kane also huge money.

[Pagan Hibernia]

On a side note on Messi’s mental health, I’ve always found it amazing that such a seemingly introverted lad could deal with the pressure that he’s constantly under so well. Carrying Barcelona, the hopes of the entire argentine population, and his fame and talent, having to perform almost like a show pony in every single game... for most of us the stress would be almost unbearable, regardless of how well we’re paid for the privilege.

same goes for Ronaldo of course, but you get the impression he relishes every minute of it

[Torto7]

Messi's just another greedy apologist. Like Lebron James and the CCP. I wonder how many players at PSG support blm then are happy to ignore the way black africans are used as slaves in Qatar? That would hit their paycheck though. Imposters.

[Dalianwanda]

A year is a long time to be fair. And even if he decision had been his, it wouldn't have been easy.

For sure…There’s a lot we don’t know i suppose.

[silverhibee]

PSG should make a move for Ronaldo just to see what they would be like together in the same team.

[Key West]

Messi arguably the greatest player ever who according to some should be void of human emotion, he's given pleasure to millions with his incredible talent and is a total inspiration to many. If you want to be ultra negative carry on, I will be watching him playing for PSG regardless, he makes football worth watching.

[1875Sean]

Messi's just another greedy apologist. Like Lebron James and the CCP. I wonder how many players at PSG support blm then are happy to ignore the way black africans are used as slaves in Qatar? That would hit their paycheck though. Imposters.

He was on more than Barca, if anyone deserves that wage in football it’s him

[hibsbollah]

It’s going to be tremendous seeing Marseille humble them in le classique.

[jacomo]

Yeah, money cures everything. Rich people can't have any mental health issues.


Money can’t buy you happiness, but it does make unhappiness easier to deal with.

[heretoday]

I don't think Messi is the greatest ever.
It's all about context.

[jacomo]

My maths is probably off, but it seems like last season 10% of Barca’s income was going to Messi alone. That’s insane.

I get that he had enormous commercial value to them, but look at them now. Broke and Messi-less.

[calumhibee1]

My maths is probably off, but it seems like last season 10% of Barca’s income was going to Messi alone. That’s insane.

I get that he had enormous commercial value to them, but look at them now. Broke and Messi-less.

I read somewhere that he was single handedly responsible for 30% of Barcelona’s income.

If it’s true then his 10% wages was well worth it.

[Big_Franck]

I read somewhere that he was single handedly responsible for 30% of Barcelona’s income.

If it’s true then his 10% wages was well worth it.

I've heard this a number of times in Spanish and Catalan media outlets over the last few weeks. I believe it has come from people who used to work at the club in the recent past (Bartomeu's staff) estimating that sponsorship deals were worth about 30% more with Messi still at Barca. They'll have seen sponsors pull out or try to renegotiate sponsorship deals starting last summer when he sent that fax to Barca declaring he was leaving.

If it's not a 30% difference in sponsorship (and likely merchandise etc also) then it'll be very close to that. He was on a ridiculous wage but then he also generated an absolutely ridiculous amount of money for the club.

[jacomo]

I read somewhere that he was single handedly responsible for 30% of Barcelona’s income.

If it’s true then his 10% wages was well worth it.


I read the same stat… it was 30% of their commercial income. And he wasn’t single handedly responsible, unless he spends his mornings before training doing the marketing and his evenings sewing all the shirts with his name on them…

[calumhibee1]

I read the same stat… it was 30% of their commercial income. And he wasn’t single handedly responsible, unless he spends his mornings before training doing the marketing and his evenings sewing all the shirts with his name on them…

I did think when it claimed he was responsible it would seem far too much. I know he’s good but nobody can be that good.

[EI255]

He's 34 and scored 38 goals last season. Maybe football isn't for you if he's not exciting.

Aside from ronaldo, most other greats were on a beach at that age.Let's wait to see what he does at Paris.

[Pagan Hibernia]

Let's wait to see what he does at Paris.

you think he’ll struggle against french defences? I highly doubt it, even in his mid 30s. Probably anything from 60 to 90 goals in the next two seasons if he avoids injury, plus god knows how many assists

[WeeRussell]

you think he’ll struggle against french defences? I highly doubt it, even in his mid 30s. Probably anything from 60 to 90 goals in the next two seasons if he avoids injury, plus god knows how many assists

👍 He wouldn’t struggle against any defence or defenders in any league.

[Pagan Hibernia]

👍 He wouldn’t struggle against any defence or defenders in any league.

well, maybe Italian defences in the 80s :greengrin

but I’m not reigniting that argument again. It’s something we’ll never know.

[660]

Me$$i

[MWHIBBIES]

Let's wait to see what he does at Paris.
You don't need to. His career and recent form speak for themsevles. He has just finished top scorer, top assister, best player and of course, winner, at a major international tournament. The only person ever to do that.

[PatHead]

They should be winning each major trophy in France with that squad. I think they will win the Champions League this season if they do bring in Messi. Pochettino has to get it right.

Sevco will knock them out of the Champions League

[Danderhall Hibs]

You don't need to. His career and recent form speak for themsevles. He has just finished top scorer, top assister, best player and of course, winner, at a major international tournament. The only person ever to do that.

We’ll need to wait until the Paris derby before making a call. See how he gets on in the truly big games.

[Callum_62]

We’ll need to wait until the Paris derby before making a call. See how he gets on in the truly big games.Lol.. Paris Derby 'Truely big'

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[Hibernia&Alba]

Decent signing

[AgentDaleCooper]

Yeah, money cures everything. Rich people can't have any mental health issues.

he wasn't displaying mental health issues. he was displaying grief, which many people find to be rather absurd, seeing as he could have easily stayed on at Barca on a further reduced wage and still made an absolute killing in sponsorships.

the money these players earn is sick, people can see this, and find it rather grating when players express emotions that are basically a result of their own greed.

[Hibernia&Alba]

So, is it 75 million for two years? 50 million wages plus a 25 million signing on fee. Nice work, if you can get it!

[Callum_62]

he wasn't displaying mental health issues. he was displaying grief, which many people find to be rather absurd, seeing as he could have easily stayed on at Barca on a further reduced wage and still made an absolute killing in sponsorships.

the money these players earn is sick, people can see this, and find it rather grating when players express emotions that are basically a result of their own greed.Explain how he could have stayed at Barca?

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[MWHIBBIES]

he wasn't displaying mental health issues. he was displaying grief, which many people find to be rather absurd, seeing as he could have easily stayed on at Barca on a further reduced wage and still made an absolute killing in sponsorships.

the money these players earn is sick, people can see this, and find it rather grating when players express emotions that are basically a result of their own greed.

Again, read about what actually happened, nothing to do with greed.
The money in football is just crazy. When TV deals are in the billions, players will earn tens of millions. I don't really see what constantly mentioning it does? Either be entertained or don't.

[calumhibee1]

he wasn't displaying mental health issues. he was displaying grief, which many people find to be rather absurd, seeing as he could have easily stayed on at Barca on a further reduced wage and still made an absolute killing in sponsorships.

the money these players earn is sick, people can see this, and find it rather grating when players express emotions that are basically a result of their own greed.

He could have offered to pay to play for Barca. He could have offered barca 100k a week for the privilege. He still couldn’t have signed.

[FilipinoHibs]

He could have offered to pay to play for Barca. He could have offered barca 100k a week for the privilege. He still couldn’t have signed.

Yes legally correct. He has the joys of wonderful Paris which will be closer to Barcelona. He won't be getting kicked by big physical defenders or have to deal with rabid English media. Probably prolong his career for a season or two. All the best Messi - one of the greats.

[Bristolhibby]

Lol.. Paris Derby 'Truely big'

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Not being wide, but what is the other team in Paris?

J

[FilipinoHibs]

Not being wide, but what is the other team in Paris?

J

Racing but they got relegated in the early 1990s. Now play in the 5th level of French football. The big Derby is with Marseille.

[calumhibee1]

Not being wide, but what is the other team in Paris?

J

There’s Paris FC who finished 5th in the second tier last year.

[jacomo]

Again, read about what actually happened, nothing to do with greed.
The money in football is just crazy. When TV deals are in the billions, players will earn tens of millions. I don't really see what constantly mentioning it does? Either be entertained or don't.


Football doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Ultimately it’s the fans who pay for it all.

It’s possible to be entertained AND be queasy about the financial model.

It’s possible to both be in awe of Messi as a player and wonder how society can justify making one human being so rich while others struggle to put food on the table.

Back to football: Barca got seduced by the galactico model and now they are going to suffer.

[flash]

Just hope he pays his taxes.

[Sir David Gray]

So, is it 75 million for two years? 50 million wages plus a 25 million signing on fee. Nice work, if you can get it!

Yep £25 million signing on fee and nearly £500,000 per week, after tax, for the next 2 years.

[hibbysam]

Yes legally correct. He has the joys of wonderful Paris which will be closer to Barcelona. He won't be getting kicked by big physical defenders or have to deal with rabid English media. Probably prolong his career for a season or two. All the best Messi - one of the greats.

And he’ll now be the face of World Cup 2022.

[FilipinoHibs]

And he’ll now be the face of World Cup 2022.

You can guarantee that. Great marketing from Qatar.

[Hibrandenburg]

Watching the live interview on Sky News and loving the translator's pronunciation of "focus". I'd write what it sounds like but it would get filtered out. :faf:

[FilipinoHibs]

Watching the live interview on Sky News and loving the translator's pronunciation of "focus". I'd write what it sounds like but it would get filtered out. :faf:

CNN devoted a whole hour to it.

[Key West]

Based on some of the comments here the next Ballon D'or should be decided at the Hibs Club.
Hopefully all the proceeds from a future mega John McGinn transfer should be donated to Edinburgh charities.
Last but not least if Ron Gordon should decide to spend millions on new signings and raise the wage structure we should all gather outside the main stand with pitchforks.

[heretoday]

Messi? Huh. Gies Chic Charnley any day. Did Messi ever score from his own half?

[HoboHarry]

Just hope he pays his taxes.
Ach bollocks to the tax man. Well except when they are chasing Sevco obviously.....

[silverhibee]

PSG should make a move for Ronaldo just to see what they would be like together in the same team.

Is he on his way to PSG. :greengrin

[Pagan Hibernia]

His hat-trick for Argentina last night saw him overtake Pele as leading South American international goal scorer.

albeit, it took him 153 games to reach 79 goals. Pele scored 77 in 92 games.

neymar is currently on 69.

[FilipinoHibs]

His hat-trick for Argentina last night saw him overtake Pele as leading South American international goal scorer.

albeit, it took him 153 games to reach 79 goals. Pele scored 77 in 92 games.

neymar is currently on 69.

No world cups though. PELE 3.

[Renfrew_Hibby]

No world cups though. PELE 3.

Its weird that for anybody currently under 40 that Messi and Ronaldo will be regarded as the greatest of all time yet they have zero World Cups between them.
It just goes to show how the club game has shifted and replace international competitions as the pinnacle of the game.

[calumhibee1]

Its weird that for anybody currently under 40 that Messi and Ronaldo will be regarded as the greatest of all time yet they have zero World Cups between them.
It just goes to show how the club game has shifted and replace international competitions as the pinnacle of the game.

Yeah, international football doesn’t hold nearly the same level of importance anymore.

[Lancs Harp]

Just asking the question, is a World Cup harder to win now?

I find the worlds best all time player discussions interesting and amusing. Are we doubting any of the usual suspects arent fantastic players? The best is purely subjective.

Cant begin to tell you the joy I've had as football fan watching the likes of Pele, Maradonna, Maldini, Baressi, Charlton, Law, Best, Cruyff, Beckenbauer, Messi, Ronaldo, Yashin, Banks, Gazza, Platini, Iniesta, and countless more.

[Iggy Pope]

Just asking the question, is a World Cup harder to win now?

I find the worlds best all time player discussions interesting and amusing. Are we doubting any of the usual suspects arent fantastic players? The best is purely subjective.

Cant begin to tell you the joy I've had as football fan watching the likes of Pele, Maradonna, Maldini, Baressi, Charlton, Law, Best, Cruyff, Beckenbauer, Messi, Ronaldo, Yashin, Banks, Gazza, Platini, Iniesta, and countless more.

Agreed. No amount of missing World Cup winners medals will convince this laddie that Cruyff was not the best in the world for about three years. Excluding Pat Stanton, natch.

[Lancs Harp]

Agreed. No amount of missing World Cup winners medals will convince this laddie that Cruyff was not the best in the world for about three years. Excluding Pat Stanton, natch.

Currently sat here in a Cruyff 14 tee shirt. Massive fan. fantastic player, so beautifully balanced and going into management the architect of everything Barca is and without Cruyff there is no Pep (ask Pep)