Guardiola claims Lionel Messi is not on Manchester City’s radar despite the Argentine being a free agent.
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has stated that they do not have plans of Messi after the Argentine departed from Spanish team Barcelona.
Pep Guardiola has been an admirer of the former Barcelona captain and wanted him in his team.
It was announced that Lionel Messi will not be part of Barcelona team for next season after contract between both parties didn’t work out, Guardiola said.
In between City signed England star Jack Grealish and will be putting on the number 10 jersey.
“He will wear the number 10. We were convinced by Grealish and convinced Leo would stay at Barca. Right now he is not in our thoughts.
On Messi’s departure.
“It was a surprise for everyone, me included,” he said.
“The president was clear on the reason why. I didn’t speak with the player or president so I don’t know what happened. But when you have a lot of money lost the decision has been made.
“But as a supporter of my club, I would love for him to finish there.
“As a fan, I have incredible gratitude for the most extraordinary player I have seen in my life.
“To win trophies for Barcelona, to help me win and go to Bayern and then on to City.
“To watch what he can do with the ball, with his mates in a football game. Day by day, game by game, he made something unique.
“All I can say is thank you so much to bring Barcelona to another level, to allow Barcelona to dominate the world for a decade with him and his mates.
“I wish him the best for the rest of his career. His contribution helped the club to reach another level.”
Meanwhile Guardiola initially stated that he wanted Jack Grealish in his team the first time he saw him play.
The also stated that the former Villa Star man will have to earn his place in the team to be a regular starter.
