‘I Was Not Ready For This’, Tearful Messi Says At Barca Press Conference

Lionel Messi fought back tears on Sunday at a press conference where he confirmed he is leaving Barcelona, where he has played his entire career. He stated ‘he was not ready for this’.

Jameela News reports that Messi while struggling to contain his emotions said “This year, my family and I were convinced we were going to stay here, at home this is what we wanted more than anything,”

“The truth is I don’t know what to say,” said Messi, who signed for the Catalan giants as a 13-year-old.

“After 21 years I am leaving with my three Catalan Argentine children,” said Messi, who won 10 league titles with the club.

“I gave everything for this club from the first day that I arrived right to the last. I never imagined having to say goodbye.

“In recent days I have given lots of thought to what I can say and truth to tell I can’t think of anything.

“This is really difficult for me after so many years spent here my entire life. I’m not ready for this,” he told a packed conference at the club as thousands of fans milled outside.