The day that Barcelona fans wished would never arrive has come - Lionel Messi has left the Catalan club and will find a new home for the 2021/22 season.

With clubs now set to battle for the Argentine's signature, Cristiano Ronaldo's wish has come true.

"I'd like him to come to Italy one day," Cristiano Ronaldo said during the 2020/21 season. "I hope he accepts the challenge of leaving his comfort zone.

"But if he's happy at Barcelona, then of course I respect that."

Now, Messi appears to be taking Cristiano up on his challenge. Although he's more likely to join Manchester City or Paris Saint-Germain than to move to Italy, Messi will be a long way from his comfort zone of the Camp Nou next season.

Wherever he goes, he is sure to give his new supporters a lot to celebrate in 2021/22 and beyond.