Not too long ago, Manchester City were the favorites to sign Barcelona icon Lionel Messi after the Argentine went public with his desire to leave the Camp Nou. However, according to recent reports out of Spain, the Citizens have all but ended their hopes of bringing the Argentine legend to the Premier League.
When La Pulga submitted a transfer request last summer, the writing appeared to be on the wall for a move to England. The Abu Dhabi-owned club were one of a few that could afford his wages and the fact that the club is managed by Pep Guardiola was seen as an added bonus.
While a summer move did not materialize, the rumors carried all the way through to January. However, according to Sport, Man City have ended their pursuit. The reason for this is simple: the Premier League giants believe that Messi no longer desires to leave Catalonia.
Since his public falling out with former president Josep Maria Bartomeu, a lot has changed. Yes, Barcelona have crashed out of the UEFA Champions League in embarrassing fashion once again, losing 5-2 on aggregate against PSG, but there is a sense of optimism at the club, mainly due to the appointment of Joan Laporta as the new president, but also thanks to an upturn in form.
In fact, with the Blaugrana sitting only four points behind league leaders Atletico Madrid, Koeman's side stand a great chance of winning the title. As a result, Man City have "thrown in the towel" and will look elsewhere for a new striker.
With Sergio Aguero set to leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of this season, the new no.9 has taken priority at the club. The EPL leaders will now shift their focus to Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Romelu Lukaku as the successor to their all-time leading scorer.
