His priority has always been to be part of a"winning project" at Camp Nou but his latest season was not only devoid of trophies, it was defined by chaos and ended in humiliation.
But that is not likely to be his next step. Instead, Messi wants titles and a club he believes in again. Perhaps Ronaldo's transfer, which is yet to deliver Juve the European success they hoped it would, might even make some of Messi's potential suitors nervous. City would appear favorites but the club has always trodden carefully around the prospect of Messi. Their sporting staff, including coach Pep Guardiola, sporting director Txiki Begiristain and chief executive Ferran Soriano, all have connections with Barcelona they are keen to respect.