Josep Maria Bartomeu: 'Lionel Messi will play at Barcelona for many more years'

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has insisted that Lionel Messi will play for the Catalan side for "many more years".

The Argentine recently won the Ballon d'Or award, the sixth time he has claimed the honour - more than any other player in history.

Messi has a lifetime contract with the La Liga champions which enables him to leave the club for free at the end of any given season.

Speaking on the subject of Messi's future, Bartomeu told Mundo Deportivo: "I talk to Leo many times and I know he still has a lot to play. He also has a contract and will play many more years."

The 32-year-old, who has nine La Liga goals from as many games this term, recently restated his desire to end his career at Camp Nou.