The era of soccer superstar Lionel Messi at FC Barcelona has come to an end. The 34-year-old Argentine could not agree on a new contract with the Spanish club, as the Catalans announced on Thursday. “Both parties deeply regret that it was ultimately impossible to fulfill the wishes of the player and the club,” the statement said. The association cited economic and structural obstacles that would have prevented a contract extension. According to Spanish newspaper reports, Messi is even said to have been willing to forego half of his salary to help the economically troubled club. Later, however, it was said that the talks had stalled and could even fail. Messi has played for the Barcelona first team since October 2004. With the Catalans he won four Champions League titles and ten Spanish championships. He also led Barca to three Club World Cup triumphs and seven cup wins. He has been without a contract since July 1st and is now looking for a new club.
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