It seems so. It’s been five years since the Argentinian won the Champions League and things aren’t getting any better at Camp Nou.
The 8-2 mauling at the hands of Bayern Munich last Friday was the nadir. Messi and co. were completely embarrassed on the biggest stage of all.
Messi is 33 now and Barcelona don’t look primed for a run at the European trophy anytime soon. They’re a shambles, both on and off the pitch.
So it’s hardly a surprise that there are increasing calls for the six-time Ballon d’Or winner to move on.
“Does he want to spend his time left in that shirt given the performances and the way the squad is looking at the moment in comparison to other teams around Europe,” asked Rio Ferdinand on BT Sport after the Bayern defeat, per the Daily Mail.
“Has he got the time to sit there and wait?”
Speculation was always going to be rife in the wake of Friday’s result and it’s set to increase following a report from Marcelo Bechler, the journalist who broke the news of Neymar’s move to Paris Saint-Germain.
According to Bechler, Messi wants to leave Barcelona this summer. He’s had enough.
The Argentina international’s contract with the club expires next year but it seems like he’s not ready to wait until then.
According to L'Equipe and France Football correspondent Florent Torchut, a senior leader at Barcelona responded to reports of Messi's departure by pointing out the fact that his contract doesn't expire until 2021.
However, it doesn't seem like he's ready to wait until then. The next few days and weeks are going to be very, very interesting.
So, where could Messi end up if he leaves?
The Mirror reported late on Saturday that Premier League club Manchester City believe they are in pole position to sign the forward, and are ready to pay whatever it takes to lure him to the Etihad Stadium.
Back with Pep Guardiola and trying to take Liverpool down? We're here for it.
According to Bechler, Messi wants to leave Barcelona this summer. He’s had enough. The Argentina international’s contract with the club expires next year but it seems like he’s not ready to wait until then.