Former Barcelona attacker Rivaldo has criticised the decision of the club in opting to keep Lionel Messi last summer.
The Argentinian forward wanted a departure due to a falling-out with the board, who insisted that he saw out the last year of his contract. While Messi, as one of the world’s best players, has obviously contributed to performances since then, the financial predicament of the Camp Nou club - and Messi’s astronomical wages - means a wider lens had to be used in the decision according to the former Brazil international.
Rivaldo pointed to arch-rivals Real Madrid and their approach to ending the time of Cristiano Ronaldo at the club at a relevant moment to make use of his value.
READ MORE: Champions League knock-out fixtures — all matches by date and kick-off time
"The previous board made a mistake by not selling Messi whilst he was still under contract," Rivaldo said.
“They could have done something similar to what Real Madrid did with Cristiano Ronaldo when they sold him and made around 100 million euros.”
With Barcelona set to undergo presidential elections next month, the longer-term future of the club and the players within the squad are yet to be determined.
Messi could yet renew his deal, though it seems improbable due to his high wages and the fact the Catalan club have been reported to be well over €1 billion in debt.
Rivaldo feels it’s just a matter of time before the club’s all-time scorer leaves, therefore.
"It's very painful to see how a very talented player is going to leave Barcelona for free at a time when the club is going through so many financial problems. For me, Messi's departure is inevitable."
Barca are third in LaLiga this season under Ronald Koeman, 10 points off leaders Atletico Madrid with a game in hand.
