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The Galaxy strategist was asked about the possibility of the Argentine superstar heading to North America
LA Galaxy head coach Guillermo Barros Schelotto said he would love to see Lionel Messi play in MLS, as the Barcelona superstar is reportedly hoping to move to Manchester City.
Messi did not participate in Barça’s first day of preseason training with new boss Ronald Koeman on Monday after the six-time Ballon d’Or winner submitted a transfer request.
As with Sunday’s coronavirus tests for Koeman’s first team members, Messi did not attend because he believes a clause in his contract that allows him to leave with a free transfer is now active, meaning he is no longer a Barcelona player.
Pep Guardiola’s City is believed to be the favorite to sign Messi and the Premier League giants have reportedly offered a long-term deal that would end with the 33-year-old playing for sister club New York City. in the MLS.
Schelotto, whose Galaxy was previously linked to a Messi’s move, was asked about the Argentine captain’s possible transfer to the United States.
“I was surprised when I found out about Messi’s decision to leave FC Barcelona because we all thought he was going to retire there,” Schelotto, also from Argentina, told reporters.
“But he must have his reasons and as an Argentine compatriot I always wish him the best and I hope he comes to MLS, it would be great.”
According to La Liga, Messi can only leave the Catalans if his release clause of 700 million euros (624 million pounds / 823 million dollars) is fulfilled or if another club negotiates a lower transfer fee with the Camp Nou club. .
Messi submitted a transfer request to the Barça board last week, in order to activate the clause in his contract that allows him to leave the club at the end of each season.
The clause in question expired in June, but the Argentine’s legal team is ready to argue that he should be allowed to terminate his agreement unilaterally as the 2019-20 season was extended through August due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Messi has called Barça home since 2001, emerging from the club’s famed youth system in 2004.
Since making his debut 16 years ago, Messi has won 33 trophies, a club record, including 10 La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns.
Messi, linked to Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus and Inter, also holds the record for the most goals scored for La Liga giants Barça.
