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Brazilian icon Rivaldo says he is confident that Lionel Messi will sign a new contract with Barcelona following the appointment of Joan Laporta as president.
Messi surprised Barcelona last summer when he tried to push for an exit after becoming disillusioned with procedures both on and off the pitch, but the Spaniards held their ground.
The Argentine’s future is still in doubt, with players like Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain showing interest, but he has started to rediscover his best form for Barca, who have enjoyed an increase in performances of late.
And Barcelona legend Rivaldo believes that Messi, who has no contract this summer, looks much happier at the club again and claims that Laporta’s arrival is to thank.
Rivaldo told Betfair: “Barcelona are improving enormously in recent weeks taking advantage of Messi’s excellent form and the election of a new president.
Messi seems much more connected and happy since the arrival of Laporta, a president he knows well.
For this reason, I begin to believe more and more that Messi could reach an agreement with the new board of directors and sign a new contract to stay at the club for a few more years.
“Messi had a confidence boost with the election of the new president, someone with whom he has a good connection, increasing the chances that he will consider staying a little longer.”
Messi had a troubled relationship with the much-maligned former club president Josep Bartomeu and tried to push for a free transfer last summer, but Barça insisted the suitors fulfilled their £ 629 million buyout clause.
Messi’s future will be one of the first calling points for Laporta to address himself as president following his appointment in early March.
Throughout Laporta’s election campaign, he prioritized Messi’s future at the center of his plans, and the Argentine even voted himself in the elections.
Messi has been in top form lately for Barça, who are now back in the race for the LaLiga title.
Ronald Koeman’s team is currently just four points behind leaders Atlético de Madrid with 10 games remaining, with Real Madrid two further behind.
Source: m.allfootballapp.com
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