The Blaugrana president is optimistic about Messi’s future.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has provided major updates on the future of Lionel Messi and manager Ronald Koeman, with both being linked with an exit from the Nou Camp.
Messi’s contract expires this summer, and there hasn’t been any update over his future, although it has been reported for a while that the Argentine would eventually stay put at Barca.
Speaking in a press conference, Blaugrana president Laporta stated that he is moderately optimistic about Messi’s contract extension.
“Contract talks are going well, but they’re not done yet. We’re working hard to make a good proposal within our means, and we hope he will accept it. Our relationship is excellent. Messi loves Barca.
I am sure he deserves more and could get more elsewhere. I am convinced he appreciates the effort we’re making, and I think he’s excited about our sporting project. I have always said it’s not a money issue with Leo; it’s about winning everything. I am moderately optimistic.”
However, the Blaugrana president has cast doubts on Koeman’s continuity, saying that the club is still assessing the situation and would make decisions in the coming weeks.
“I have already told Koeman what I had to tell him very clearly. We’re assessing the season. He has a contract in place, but I don’t believe in transitional seasons. We will continue to speak to him and make further decisions next week.
You have to understand that he was a coach already in place with a year on his deal when we took over. We’re trying to come to an agreement where we can share with each other what we want for next season. We take everything into account. Ronald will be the first to know our decision.”
The Dutch manager’s future is up in the air following a fluctuating debut season, where Barca slumped in the final weeks of the La Liga title race. In addition, Koeman also failed to inspire his side in the Champions League as they couldn’t progress past the round of 16.
Blaugrana are said to have shortlisted a few names like Roberto Martinez and Xavi for the managerial role, but it remains to be seen whether Koeman would survive at the Nou Camp or bite the dust.
