Arthur splits from his agent in the aftermath of Champions League exit

FC Barcelona midfielder Arthur Melo has split from his agent Jorge Machado. According to UOL Esporte, the Brazilian must pay 227,000 euros to break away from Machado early as his contract runs until 2020. This stems from an issue between the player's father and his agent which has intensified since he arrived at Barça. FIFA could get involved if the situation turns ugly.

Machado naturally reacted to the news on social media and took shots at both parties. He later claimed his account had been hacked. The message on Instagram said: "As of today I no longer represent the bad person called Arthur and his father is even worse than him. FIFA will decide."

When asked by UOL Esporte for a comment, Machado said he didn't write the post and that Arthur was still his client. "Arthur is a son, a brother to my son, I'd never do that. He remains with me and nothing has to change." However Arthur's family told the same outlet that they no longer required the agent's services. Arthur's future will now be controlled by his family.