The best fan reactions to Messi's Barcelona exit

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 5 Aug 2021 20:00 BST
• 6 min read

The news that Lionel Messi won't be renewing his contract has been announced and it's fair to say that it has shocked the football world.

Having come through La Masia, Messi epitomises everything good that Barcelona have achieved over the past decade and a half, and his departure could spell trouble for the club.

He's their talisman, but La Liga salary limits have meant they are unable to offer him a deal that he is willing to accept.

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Messi is now reportedly open to talks with other clubs, and while he may make a U-turn and continue at the Camp Nou, for now, Messi is leaving Barcelona.

Beloved by millions, Messi has turned Barcelona into a global brand, a brand that may well be threatened by this news.

Messi fans are some of the most football-loving in the world, but how have they, and Barcelona fans, reacted to Messi refusing to sign a new deal at the Camp Nou?

Here are some of the best ones...

How have Barcelona fans reacted to Messi leaving the club?

Fans of the Catalan club are understandably devastated that their captain and star man won't be staying. With mesmerising performances week-in, week-out, Messi caused fans to fall in love with football, and their reactions show their sadness, and appreciation for his time at the club.

How has the rest of the football world reacted?

While Barcelona and Messi fans are unsurprisingly devastated by the news, football fans on the whole have a different reaction to the news.

Chelsea, Man City and PSG fans, for example, all want their club's to splash the cash and sign the Argentine.

It could be the biggest transfer saga of all time, and it won't be going anywhere soon.