Lionel Messi has wished Neymar “a lot of luck” in his new adventure as his Barcelona colleague closes in on a world-record move to Paris Saint-Germain.
Neymar’s proposed €222 million switch to the French capital swiftly gathered pace on Wednesday as he was granted permission to miss training and tie up his future.
“It was a great pleasure to have shared all these years with you, friend,” Messi posted alongside a photo montage of the pair.
“I wish you a lot of luck in this new stage of your life. See you, I love you a lot.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s continued presence at Barca is rumoured to have been a factor in Neymar’s decision to leave, with his inner circle reportedly of the opinion that he will not be considered the best player in the world until he has the opportunity to step out of Messi’s shadow.
