Few thought it likely that Lionel Messi would ever leave Barcelona. Messi made it clear to the speculators that Barcelona is his home when he signed a contract extension on Thursday to remain with the club until 2018.
The contract takes Messi, 25, up until he turns 31 years old. According to the Los Angeles Times, the contract will pay Messi $14.75 million per year.
"I'm very happy at Barcelona, I have always said so. It's a great day," Messi said. "I don't know how I will be when I reach 31. I just go forward day by day and try to enjoy playing football here."
He did however note that there is a chance he may play out his final days in Argentina.
"I have said before that as far as Europe goes I would like to end my career at Barcelona," added Mess. "I don't think about playing for any other team on the continent. That said, I don't rule out ending my playing career in Argentina."
Messi has won virtually all there is to win. He is the four time reigning Ballon D'Or winner and has won five Spanish Championships with Barcelona; the team is currently well positioned to win its sixth with Messi. The Argentina nicknamed "La Pulga" due to his small stature has also won three Champions League crowns with Barça and has taken home to FIFA club world cup titles. Messi also scored a record 91 goals in 2012; he surpassed Gerd Müller's record of 85 set in 1972. The only major tournament that Messi has yet to win is the World Cup with Argentina.
Messi joined Barcelona at the age of 13 and worked his way up the club's training program until he debuted with the big club at the age 17.
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