The Argentine superstar may not play a single game in his home country if he doesn't change his mind.

There's a reason why Lionel Messi may not be able to fulfill his dream of playing for his boyhood club: his family.

In a lengthy interview with TyC Sports, the Argentine ace admitted that, even though he would love to hang his boots while playing for the team he roots for, the current political and social situation in Argentina could forbid him from doing so.

Apparently, Messi doesn't want his kids to grow up in a violent environment, such as the one being lived in his home country nowadays.

"I've said it many times: I'd love to end my career playing for Newell's, but I don't know what's going to happen. Part of that doubt comes due to the current situation in Argentina. It's sad to hear what's going on there, that sometimes people get mugged and they end up taking your life," Messi stated.

"My family comes first, I want them to grow up safely, being able to enjoy their lives," the player added.

Messi also tackled the issue of him coming off the bench in some of Barcelona's games, such as yesterday's clash against Sporting.

"I understood that the season is quite long, and there are moments where it gets tougher. Years don't just pass us by, and if you play many games, your body takes a toll. I've realized that sometimes not playing some games is the best thing to do," Messi concluded.

 

Match details, result and original broadcast info

Villarreal 0 - 2 Barcelona

December 10, 2017 2:45pmEstadio de la Cerámica (Villarreal)

This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.

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