Leo Messi hasn't ruled out staying at Barcelona beyond next season
Messi will listen to what the next Barça president has to say before making a decision on his future
The day after Lionel Messi announced he would be staying at FC Barcelona, it didn't put an end to all the rumours and speculation surrounding the Argentine's future. Leo has decided to stay for another season to avoid a court case but next summer, as things stand, he is free to sign for any club in the world on a free transfer.
Messi has four months to work with Ronald Koeman before he's free to negotiate with other teams from January. Leo is expected to listen to every proposal that comes his way and won't rush into making a decision either way.
Elections
As Messi considers his future, FC Barcelona will focus on their own. Bartomeu is expected to remain in charge until the elections for a new president take place on the 15th March. This means, before the 2020/21 season finishes, a new Barça president will be announced.
Messi will listen to the mandate of the new regime in charge. If the project appeals to Leo, then he could sign a new extension at Barça.
The Xavi Effect
For example, Messi is excited by the prospect of Xavi Hernandez returning to the club. Barça tried to bring him in to replace Valverde but Xavi turned the move down. Leo believes a project under Xavi's leadership would be a breath of fresh air at the club.
Family
Another key factor for Messi's future will be his family's feelings on the matter. He wants them to be happy with whatever decision he makes. This would naturally favour a stay at Barça due to them being settled in the city.
The year 2020 is proof you can't predict or plan for anything at the moment. Messi and Bartomeu's very public fall out doesn't necessarily mean that Leo's time at the club will end come next summer.
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