The ruling body said the only way a club can sign the Argentine forward is if he triggers a release clause of 700-million euros ($833 million).

La Liga on Sunday released a statement saying Lionel Messi’s Barcelona contract was still valid, days after his shock announcement that he wants to leave the club and hours after he failed to attend a pre-season medical.

Messi’s failure to show for his medical underlined the 33-year-old’s determination to leave the club he has been with throughout his career.

The six-times world player of the year insists he has a clause in his contract that allows him to leave on a free transfer -- a claim disputed by Barcelona and now by La Liga.

The ruling body said the only way a club can sign the Argentine forward is if he triggers a release clause of 700-million euros ($833 million).

“In compliance with the applicable rule, La Liga will not approve a request to be de-registered as a player with the Spanish football federation, unless the amount in the release clause has been paid,” La Liga said.

Reuters footage showed players arriving for coronavirus tests on Sunday morning and Messi did not appear. He had been due at Barcelona’s training ground at 10.15am local time but a club source confirmed to Reuters he had not arrived.

La Liga’s stance is a blow to Messi’s hopes of a quick departure and to those clubs wishing to sign him.

https://m.hindustantimes.com/cricket/messi-contract-is-valid-says-la-liga-after-he-fails-to-attend-medical/story-5TJsDp67dTeusuvRsqlrOJ.html

Better is the end of a thing, than the beginning thereof. He started well, had good opportunities, won many/major trophies and awards no player in history ever won, "BUT" he should try at least to end well(honourably)... for, he will not be remembered for his former days, but by his latter end...

Is better he end like a hero, Dan ending his career like mumu guy. Laliga and Barcelona will finish messi I swear. He should calm down and finish d remaining one year first den he will b honored. Look at d way inieta was honored. A word is enough for a wise. Thanks