In pics: Lionel Messi bids tearful adieu to Barcelona, likely to join Paris Saint-Germain

A tearful Lionel Messi confirmed he is leaving Barcelona after 17 trophy-laden years, with Paris Saint-Germain his likely next port of call. The 34-year-old Argentine's emotional news conference followed Barca's announcement last week that it could no longer afford him after a glittering two decades.

A tearful Lionel Messi confirmed he is leaving Barcelona after 17 trophy-laden years, with Paris Saint-Germain his likely next port of call. Credit: Reuters Photo

Messi was seen wiping his tears several times before a squadron of reporters at the club's Camp Nou ground who gave him a standing ovation. Credit: AFP Photo

The 34-year-old Argentine's emotional news conference followed Barca's announcement last week that it could no longer afford him after a glittering two decades. Credit: AFP Photo

An emotional Messi is seen wiping his tears during the press conference. Credit: Reuters Photo

Messi's wife Antonela Roccuzzo arrives to attend the press conference. Credit: AFP Photo

Lionel Messi shares a warm hug with coach Ronald Koeman after the press conference. Credit: Reuters Photo

Barcelona's Spanish defender Sergi Roberto, Barcelona's Spanish defender Gerard Pique and Barcelona's German goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen listen to Messi. Credit: AFP Photo

Messi's children Thiago and Ciro get clicked during the press conference. Credit: AFP Photo

Lionel Messi drives past the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona on August 8, 2021. Credit: AFP Photo