Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu is so desperate to see Lionel Messi keep playing football that he has boldly claimed the Argentinean could continue into his 40s.
Despite some claims before the season that he was past his best, Messi has been in scintillating form in this campaign, scoring a phenomenal 34 goals in 27 appearances in La Liga and bagging a further 12 goals in the Champions League.
His latest breathtaking moment was a sublime free-kick against Liverpool to inspire his side to a 3-0 first leg win over the Merseysiders.
And Bartomeu says he hopes there are plenty more magic moments to come from the player generally considered to be the greatest of all time.
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When asked about Messi's retirement, he said: "I still think it’s a long way off. He’s only 31. Look at the power in that free kick. He’s a long way out and that ball really flies. He’s stronger than ever.
Barcelona are planning to rebuild their iconic Nou Camp stadium, with work due to begin in the summer of 2020 with it expected to be completed by 2023.
Bartomeu hopes Messi will still be playing when the newly renovated ground opens.
"I hope Leo plays on until he’s 45!" he said.
"I don’t know what he wants to do but it would be fantastic to have him in the team when we inaugurate the new stadium."
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And the president is also aware of just how much of a privilege is has been for him and others to watch Messi in action.
He said: "Presidents from other teams, when they come to the Camp Nou the first thing they say is: “Is Messi going to play today?” They support their teams but they love football and want to see him.
"This year I wouldn’t give him the Ballon d’Or. He’s beyond that now. He’s in a category of his own. For years now he’s just been competing against himself. There are other great players but he is in another dimension."
