Brazilian legend Rivaldo has insisted Barcelona supporters will give Lionel Messi a hero's reception if he stays at the club despite the fact the Argentinean star handed in a transfer request last week.
Messi stunned the world of football when he informed Barcelona of his intentions to leave the club, but it is now believed there is a chance he could stay and see out the last year of his contract.
Some have suggested that the six-time Ballon d'Or winner may find it difficult to win back over the Barca fans if that does prove to be the case given his apparent desire to abandon the club that he has spent his whole professional career at.
But speaking to Betfair, Rivaldo stated his belief that the Barcelona faithful would forgive him due to his qualities as a player.
“Negotiations are continuing between Lionel Messi and Barcelona, as player and club try to reach an agreement about his future. If Messi stays for at least one more season it won't be a problem," Rivaldo said.
“Blaugrana fans still have lots of love for him and know that he is a legendary player who made and can still make the difference at the club, so things can still end up nicely.
“A lot can happen in the next few weeks - he can leave, he can stay for one more season or even extend his contract, so we must wait - but if he stays at the club I'm not imagining a scenario of fans booing him at the Camp Nou or anything similar, not at all.”
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The World Cup winner added: “He has taken responsibility for the team for too long and is probably tired of the pressure. The club have signed many players in the last couple of seasons, but no one has stepped up to help him and relieve some of his burden.
“Messi's father met with Barca's president Josep Bartomeu and I think the player made the right decision in not being present. Tense negotiations could damage the player's relationship with Barca's board which would be unhelpful while there's a chance he will stay at Barca.”
