Could Lionel Messi really do the unthinkable and leave Barcelona in the near future…
For the first time ever, Lionel Messi could actually leave Barcelona. For a man always billed as a future one-club player, any move could have unthinkable ramifications across European football.
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Reports in the Daily Mail confirm that Messi is unhappy under new manager Luis Enrique, who left the Argentinian on the bench for their recent 1-0 defeat against David Moyes’ Real Sociedad.
Barcelona are believed to be in full-blown meltdown, with turmoil behind the scenes, and Messi could be looking for an escape route – with Chelsea already heavily linked with a record breaking move, also by the Daily Mail.
Could Messi be a success outside of Barcelona? Would he risk his legacy by moving abroad, or will he stay put. Here are five potential candidates for his signature if he did become available:
5) Manchester United
Would It Happen: Louis van Gaal’s Man United have proved that they’re not scared to throw money around. Who would have thought they’d sign Angel di Maria and Radamel Falcao without even having Champions League football to offer? If they continue their revival under the Dutchman then this could be a real possibility next summer.
How They’d Line-Up (4-2-3-1): De Gea, Smalling, Jones, Rojo, Shaw, Carrick, Herrera, Di Maria, Messi, Rooney, Van Persie.
Chances Of Bid Success (if he’s available): 6/10
4) Paris Saint Germain
Would It Happen: PSG have the financial muscle to make a move happen, but perhaps lack the universal appeal of a club such as Manchester United, with their global stature and history. The French league would not represent much of a challenge for Messi, as it would be a step down from his current level, and would be unlikely to appeal.
How They’d Line-Up (4-3-3): Sirigu, Van der Wiel, Silva, Luiz, Maxwell, Motta, Matuidi, Verratti, Lucas, Ibrahimovic, Messi.
Chances Of Bid Success (if he’s available): 3/10
3) Real Madrid
Would It Happen: Probably not, but remember Luis Figo, remember Ronaldo, Real Madrid have a history of shock moves for Barcelona players, and this one would be the biggest transfer in history. They’d love to get one over on their rivals, but you have to imagine that the deal would be an impossible one to negotiate between them.
How They’d Line-Up (4-2-3-1): Casillas, Ramos, Pepe, Varane, Marcelo, Kroos, Khedira, Ronaldo, Messi, Bale, Benzema.
Chances Of Bid Success (if he’s available): 2/10
2) Bayern Munich
Would It Happen: Munich have the lure of Pep Guardiola, undoubtedly Messi’s favourite Barcelona boss. The pair created history together in Spain, and would no doubt love the opportunity to do so again in Germany, as Guardiola seeks yet more major success. If Munich can come up with the cash, make them the favourites.
How They’d Line-Up (3-5-2): Neuer, Boateng, Badstuber, Benatia, Alonso, Martinez, Robben, Messi, Ribery, Muller, Lewandowski
Chances Of Bid Success (if he’s available): 8/10
1) Chelsea
Would It Happen: Chelsea are the name being regularly tipped by the media, and have plenty of money stored away following the sales of Luiz, Lukaku etc. Jose Mourinho would no doubt love the chance to work with Messi, have admired him from afar during his time with Madrid, and could fit him into the current system.
How They’d Line-Up (4-2-3-1): Courtois, Ivanovic, Terry, Cahill, Azpilicueta, Matic, Fabregas, Oscar, Messi, Hazard, Costa.
Chances Of Bid Success (if he’s available): 7/10
SEE ALSO: Chelsea transfer news