This archive report was first published on 25 August 2020.
On August 14, 2020, Barcelona's Lionel Messi was seen looking dejected, as play resumed behind closed doors following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). (Manu Fernandez/Pool via REUTERS)
Just a few days later, on August 18, 2020, Messi made a shocking decision, informing Barcelona that he wishes to leave the club immediately. According to a club source, the 33-year-old Argentine captain sent a burofax, a service used in Spain to urgently dispatch a document that requires proof to third parties.
Messi, who has spent his entire career at Barca, has a contract with the Catalans until 2021. The six-time Ballon d'Or winner has been with the club since 2000, when he joined as a youth player.
