5 reasons why Lionel Messi will stay at Barcelona

#5 Future projects

Xavi has openly declined media rumours of Messi moving to Manchester City

Neymar Jr. left Barcelona in the summer because he wanted to carve his own influential image. As Barcelona try to resuscitate themselves into contention for major titles over a longer period, the officials have stated that they are eager to keep Messi at Nou Camp for years to come.

Club legend Xavi declared his intentions of being the manager of his boyhood club in near future and defender Gerard Pique has also made his intentions of running for Presidency clear. Xavi and Pique have stated that they want Messi to renew with the club at the earliest and be a part of a bigger future plan for Barcelona.

"As a fan of Barcelona and being close to Leo (Messi), I wish and hope he renews with Barcelona. But it depends on him and Barcelona. I think they will reach an agreement." - Xavi

Although Neymar's departure was a blow, Ousmane Dembele -- for whom Barcelona paid a lot -- is a pretty good player in his own right and what's more is Messi is still at the heart of it all, which could make the upcoming few years as exciting as the last few seasons.