Messi reveals plans on Barclays Premier League

Lionel Messi of Barcelona and Argentina

Lionel Messi just proved to all that care to know that he can be classified as one of the football’s gods  if not the God of Football on Monday night by reclaiming the revered trophy then reaffirmed he will NOT be coming to the Barclays Premier League.

Barcelona’s magician lifted the Ballon d’Or for a fifth time at a glitzy ceremony in Zurich. He dominated the vote, with Wayne Rooney among the national captains who voted for him. England manager Roy Hodgson made Cristiano Ronaldo his No 1 choice.

Messi enjoyed a remarkable 12 months, winning five trophies and scoring 48 goals in 53 games, but he made it clear he has no intention of showcasing his talents anywhere other than the Nou Camp. Pep Guardiola may be heading for Manchester City, but the Argentine is not planning a reunion.

Messi poses with Barcelona team-mate Neymar

‘I want to keep succeeding with the club,’ said Messi, whose club manager Luis Enrique was named coach of the year. ‘Now is not the time to think about whether this is (my) peak. It’s more important that we keep trying to win, that we work hard. It’s a lot to think about.

‘I’ve always said that (I can’t leave Barcelona). It’s always my response. I want to finish my career at home. My home is Barcelona. Football changes so much. A year ago, we were all getting criticised and we ended up winning nearly everything. My intention is to terminate my career where it started, in Barcelona.’