Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos has stated that Lionel Messi should be able to do what he wants as he continues to force a move from FC Barcelona, and was also clear about where he would like to see the Argentine playing next season.
The Spanish defender, who has had some of his most intense battles with the six-time Ballon d'Or winner and Barcelona over the years, has now had his say on Messi's future.
It is well known that the Argentina captain is determined to leave the Catalan club, although president Josep Maria Bartomeu argues that he is still under contract until June 2021.
Ramos feels his rival has earned the right to choose what he wants for himself, but also admitted he would prefer to see the 33-year-old stay in LaLiga.
"I think (Messi) has earned the respect to decide his future," he said, according to ESPN.
"I don't know if he's doing it in the best way. But, of course, for Spanish football, for Barcelona and for us, we always like to win being the best. We would like him to stay here.
"Leo makes the Spanish league better, he makes his team better and he makes the Clasico more attractive.
"We like to win with the best there and he's one of the best in the world.
"There isn't much to add, he's won the respect to decide his future, him alone, without any speculation at all. Let's see what happens."
