'Barca will continue to be Barca and Messi will continue to be Messi': Dani Alves opens up on Leo's departure

Speaking to the media after winning the Olympics gold medal with Brazil in the Tokyo Olympics, former Barcelona defender Dani Alves said: “I am very sorry for Messi and Barça. Now is not a good time for either side.

“I think Barça will not be the same because Barça with Messi is one thing, and Barça without Messi is another.

“But Barça will continue to be Barça and Messi will continue to be Messi. It’s a new challenge for Messi and for Barça, but I think challenges make you better most of the time, because they force you out of your comfort zone.”

Messi is said to be shocked at the prospect of leaving his childhood club and will hold a press conference on Sunday to clarify his situation as well as give an update on his future.