FC Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has responded to Lionel Messi snubbing a return to the Camp Nou to join Major League Soccer side Inter Miami.
The Argentine Superstar rejected advances from Saudi Arabia and the Catalan giants and will join David Beckham's side on a free transfer from next month.
Xavi reveals has spoken to Messi since the decision and reveals his former teammate was unhappy for the past two years in Paris.
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"The last days, weeks, I had noticed that he didn't see his return clearly. You have to understand it, being Messi is not easy. Everyone is interested in you, he never has calm," Xavi said, as per Jijantes.
"Leo explained it, for the past two years he was unhappy. I can understand that he doesn't want so much pressure anymore. I spoke with him a lot.
"I have spoken a lot with Messi and we were all excited... But in the end it hasn't happened. He has explained the circumstances very well. He wants a quieter and more family life.
"It's Messi's personal decision and you have to respect him because he's the best player in history. I was convinced that we would do well with him."
When asked about a possible move for Neymar, Xaiv added, "I'm surprised… he's not in our plan. I really like Ney as a friend, but we have different priorities."
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