The unknown try of Messi to leave to Chelsea in 2004: why it didn't happen
Argentinian star wanted to move from FC Barcelona more than 15 years ago to play under José Mourinho mandate but he couldn't.
Lionel Messi convulsed soccer world this transfer window after saying that he wanted to leave FC Barcelona. Despite the wish of one of the best players of the world, Josep Bartmeu rejected the move and La Pulga finally decided to stay, as a trial to the club of his life was the only way out.
But, more than 15 years ago Messi also tried to leave Barcelona. Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, transfer market specialist, told that in 2004 the Argentinian was seriously thinking about moving to Chelsea because he wanted to play for José Mourinho. As he reports there was even a telephonic call between the head coach and the player.
The story was finally very different, as Messi stayed in Barcelona, made his debut for the first team in October of that same year and finally won more than 30 titles and broke all the records for his life-club. Even though we can't discard a move from Leo in the future, after his tense relationship with Bartomeu.
Chelsea's story could have been very different is Messi decided to join but something made it impossible his move, even when owner Román Abramóvich also approved the transfer.
