LaLiga president Javier Tebas played down the impact of Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi possibly leaving Spain, while warning of a financial crisis should the coronavirus pandemic force football to stop again.
Messi handed in a transfer request following a tumultuous 2019-20 season, which saw Barca humiliated 8-2 by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals and dethroned by Real Madrid in LaLiga, before the six-time Ballon d Or winner opted to remain at Camp Nou this term.
The 33-year-old – who has a €700million release clause – was heavily linked to Premier League giants Manchester City, while Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus and Inter also emerged as possible destinations.
Asked about Messi, Tebas told reporters: As I always said, I will always want to see Messi in LaLiga. If he stays at Barcelona, much better for Barcelona.