FC Barcelona has said goodbye to star player Lionel Messi with emotional videos and messages on social media. On Thursday, the 34-year-old Argentine star was told that he must leave his great love FC Barcelona after more than 20 years. Many teammates left short messages for their number 10.
Gerard Pique: “Nothing will be the same”
“Nothing will be the same again. Not Camp Nou, not the city of Barcelona, not us. After more than 20 years at the club, you will no longer wear the jersey. Reality is very harsh at times… There are still things to be done. Enjoy it, have fun wherever you go, and keep winning as only your know-how. We are going to miss you here.”
Luis Suarez: “More than enough words to tell your story”
“Little boy. Leo. I know there are more than enough words to tell the story you have written at Barça. The club saw you grow up, the club you loved so much, and where you took so many titles on your way to becoming the best player in history. I will always be grateful for how you took me in when I arrived because you are an amazing person.”
Jordi Alba: “Best player in history”
“What a privilege it has been to share these 9 seasons with you. I was lucky enough to witness your first goal in 2005 against Albacete, and I never imagined that one day we would have such a mutual feeling that we would understand each other with just one look… You are not only the best player in history but also an exceptional human being.”
Antoine Griezmann: “You changed everything”
“All I can tell you is what any football fan would say: THANK YOU! Thank you for everything you have done for Barcelona. For the city, for the club… You changed everything! I’m sure this isn’t a goodbye, but a see you later, and that your path will cross with Barça someday. I wish you the best, and may you and your family be happy.”
Sergio Busquets: “You made history”
You came as a boy, and you leave as the best player ever. You’ve made this club grow and made history, individually and with the team. I can only wish you the best, that’s what you deserve. You will be missed.
Philippe Coutinho: “Great honor to play alongside you”
“Thanks for everything. It was a great honor to meet you and play alongside you. I am grateful for the way you treated me and my family. I wish you every success in the future, may God bless your home and your family.”
Riqui Puig: “Living every boy’s dream”
“I have had the honor of living the dream that every boy with a passion for football has. To be able to share the locker room and be a teammate of the best player in the world. To live, learn and duel with him is the best thing that has happened to me in the past two years. Thank you, Leo. We are going to miss you very much. Good luck.”
Sergi Roberto: “We love you”
“We’re never going to be able to give you back what you’ve given us. I wish you and your family the best. We love you and will miss you. Eternal gratitude.”
Ansu Fati: “Every boy arrives at La Masia to play with you”
Every boy arrives at La Masia with the dream of playing with you. I am happy that I succeeded. I want to thank you for your attitude towards me during those two years, and for all, you have taught me.”
Barça icons: “I wish you the best”
“Thanks for everything, Leo. We will never be able to thank you enough for everything you have given us,” said former captain Carles Puyol. Xavi, the legendary hub of Barcelona’s midfield a few years ago, agrees: “As a culer, teammate and friend, I can only thank you for all you’ve given. Whatever you do, I wish you the best.”