Not so fast leaving, Messi.

[patdog]

La Liga upholds $834MM release clause in his contract with Barcelona. My amateur lawyer opinion, players whose contracts expired on June 30 either signed 6-week extensions to finish out the season or left their clubs on June 30. I don't see why it would be any different with the release clause. Messi should have told them he was gone on June 30 or negotiated an extension. Barca can't hold him hostage for the full amount, but they're in good position to get a pretty good negotiated payday to sell him.

Link

 

[jethreauxdawg]

I believe he can “retire” and sit out one year, then another team can sign him and not have to pay the penalty.

 

[aTotal360]

Washed.

 

[patdog]

He won't sit out a year. Man City, PSG, or possibly one of the big Italian clubs will negotiate a reduced transfer fee to sign him. But yeah, if a star player plays out his contract, he's a true free agent and can sign anywhere for free. It rarely happens with star players, but it does happen occasionally with others.