Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi has agreed a new contract at the club to make him the world’s best paid player once again. Messi was recently overtaken by Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo who signed a contract that paid him £ 15 million per year. Messi has now overtaken this by signing a contract that gives him £ 15.5 million per year. The two have been intense rivals in the last few years and this contract once again demonstrates this aspect. Messi already had several years left on his deal, but still wanted to sign this contract.
Spanish experts have pointed out to the fact that this was the player’s eight extension in the last 12 years. Many have questioned the need for so many renewals. In fact, this was the topic of the debate a few months ago when the Barcelona vice president suggested the same. This led to transfer rumours linking Messi with the likes of PSG and Manchester city. However, Barcelona have had no other option but to give in to the demands of the player, who has won for FIFA world Player of the Year awards in his career.
The announcement of this contract comes ahead of the final match of the season against Atletico Madrid, in which Barcelona could yet win the title.
“We really believed we had no chance, but maybe we gave up too soon. We thought we had lost the league and these things happen in football. But now it’s in our hands. It is a very important title and we have to be together, but we are still hungry and people should be encouraged. One of the keys to the game is to score first, and get them [Atlético] to move forward more,” Xavi said. Iniesta has promised to give 110% for this match.