Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona celebrates his goal during the Spanish championship La Liga Football match between FC Barcelona and Celta de Vigo. IPA

Lionel Messi will take 50% pay cut to stay with FC Barcelona

Originally posted on Sportsnaut | By Matt Fitzgerald | Last updated 7/14/21

FC Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi is going to remain with Barca by taking a pay cut of 50% as part of his new five-year contract.

Multiple outlets reported the news of Messi’s decision to stay, including Goal.

BREAKING: Lionel Messi is set to extend his contract with Barcelona until 2026, Goal can confirm ✍️

Messi will take a 50% wage cut in order to prolong his stay at Camp Nou ❤️ pic.twitter.com/9O3xMWypXM
— Goal (@goal) July 14, 2021

During an epic tenure with Barcelona that began all the way back in 2000 when he was part of their youth development program, and officially began when he was promoted to their top club in 2004, Messi has risen to epic heights and established himself as one of the best players world football has ever seen.

Across 519 matches played and 464 La Liga starts, Messi has scored 474 goals with 193 assists, averaging just over one goal per 90 minutes.

ESPN Stats & Info further highlighted Messi’s legendary résumé.

Lionel Messi & Barcelona have reached an agreement on a new 5-year contract, according to @ESPN sources.

Messi holds club records for titles (35), goals (672) & games played (778). His 672 goals with Barcelona are the most by any player for a single club in soccer history. pic.twitter.com/15hedLdv40
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) July 14, 2021

So, even with Messi slashing his pay by a significant margin, he’s already made more than enough to last several lifetimes after his four-year deal worth a whopping $674 million in total expired on June 30.

Messi became a full-time starter for FC Barcelona in his age-19 season, and since then, they’ve won eight La Liga titles, and three UEFA Champions League trophies.

The fans have to be thrilled that Messi is sticking around, despite the star’s previous public scolding of the club’s management and significant salary reduction. However, with Messi staying at Camp Nou until he’s 39, his presence should still attract premium talent to his side.

This article first appeared on Sportsnaut and was syndicated with permission.

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