Brazilian Legend Whose Free-Kick Style Was Adapted by CR7, Offers Lionel Messi a ‘Good Choice’ Rather Than a ‘Derby Against Cristiano Ronaldo’ – “Nobody Will Do What He Did”

One of the most sought-after questions with the summer transfer window approaching is where Lionel Messi will play next season. The Argentine is nearing an end to his PSG contract. It will end in June this year, and he is yet to renew, with several clubs ready to sign him.

Brazilian legend, who is known for his knuckleball free kicks, has advised Messi on his next move. Juninho Pernambucano, famously known as Juninho, who has scored many free kicks throughout his career, has urged the PSG forward to return to his former club, Barcelona. 

Cristiano Ronaldo copied the knuckleball free-kick technique many times and scored crucial goals for the club and country. The Portuguese adapted to Juninho’s style really well. 

Juninho wants to see Lionel Messi return to FC Barcelona

The Olympique Lyon legend was on the Rothen S’Enflamme show on Wednesday. The host, Jerome Rothen, and Juninho spoke about the next move for the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner. Juninho feels that Messi should make a return to his former club Barcelona, where he is still loved.

“He has achieved everything. He has been a world champion, but time flies for everyone. I think the best thing is to go back to Barca but differently. Returning to Barca with the same contract, it could go badly with the fans. If he returns to Barca, with his heart, another speech, and a contract in the conditions of Barca today, it can be a good choice,” Juninho said. 

“It’s better than going to play a derby against Cristiano Ronaldo without disrespecting the Saudi league. The best choice is to return to Barca, although it will not be easy for Xavi to find a team balance because there is Robert Lewandowski,” Lyon legend added.

“But Xavi has an intimate relationship with Messi, which could sometimes make it easier for him to put him on the bench and keep him for bigger games. In Barcelona, Messi has the respect of the dressing room, the players, the fans, and the city. Nobody will do what he did with Barca,” Juninho said further.

Tensions rising between PSG fans and Messi

The contract extension talks between Messi, and PSG were on track. However, things have changed, and reports suggest Messi is moving away from Paris. PSG ultras booed Messi in recent games, upsetting the World Cup winner. 

READ MORE: Amid Massive $438 Million News, Lionel Messi Could Take a Humongous Pay Cut to Join FC Barcelona

The reaction from ultras came after the poor performance of the Argentine in the round of 16 Champions League clash against Bayern Munich. Fans were unhappy at PSG getting knocked out again in the round of 16 since Messi arrived. The relationship between fans and the Argentine is strenuous, and recent comments from Barcelona’s vice president suggest Messi could be headed to the Catalan club.  

WATCH THIS STORY: Cristiano Jr’s Insane Training Schedule

Do you agree with what Juninho said about Messi’s next move?