Fan’s futile wait for Messi to show up

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi had already confirmed that he would trigger the exit clause of his contract which allows him to leave for free at the end of every season. Barcelona however do not either want to sit for a meeting with the player nor have they offered a solution to a legend who wants out.

The club expected Messi to show up for pre-season medical tests today ahead of training tomorrow. Messi however had already communicated in his burofax that he no longer remains a Barcelona player. The standoff continued today and Messi was expected at the training ground today at 10:15 am as fans flocked near the training ground.

One by one the players showed up but the Barcelona captain was no where to be seen. Luis Suarez -- his best friend and strike partner -- and Arturo Vidal were among players seen arriving for tests, despite both being told they should find new teams as part of a planned clear-out this summer. A young fan stayed in hope of seeing his idol back at the Barcelona facilities. He was disappointed to say the least.

Luis Suarez, who is Messi's best friend in the Barca squad shows up. Still no sign of Messi. Photo: Reuters

Ultimately he skipped the testing and without passing a coronavirus test, Messi will be unable to join team-mates for new coach Ronald Koeman's first training session on Monday, with the start of the La Liga season less than two weeks away.

The wait for Messi continued but the Barcelona legend did not show up for coronavirus tests leading to confirmation that he will not attend training tomorrow. Photo: Reuters

The fact that he stayed away from the tests today makes his intention clear and Barca's communication or lack thereof since the burofax further lends credit to the insinuations that the dispute could turn ugly and end up in court.