The non-sporting factors affecting Messi's contract renewal

The Barcelona board have already made it clear that the photograph of Messi signing his contract is purely a formality, but you would think that any club would be keen to officially announce the contract renewal of one of the best players in the world, even if it is just via a photo.

This all-important photo could have been produced months ago. In fact, Messi return from his holiday after marrying his wife on July 11, so it has been three months and still no official confirmation of Messi committing his future to the Catalan giants has been released. 

After all the events which occurred on October 1 and the position of the club strongly in favour of Catalan independence, the Argentina international is thought to be considering his decision to sign a new deal at Barca.

The reason for this is if Catalonia does indeed become independent, Messi would be caught up in matters which have nothing to do with football and he would be in the middle of a storm which may prevent him for fulfilling his footballing aims.

Eduardo Inda, from 'El Chiringuito' reported: "Messi is angry about the non-sporting reasons which Barcelona has given to support the illegal referendum and independence movement in Catalonia.

"He doesn't want to play in a smaller league, because his value would decrease.

"Additionally, he is annoyed because before, Barcelona was well received, but now there is a hostility which is likely to increase."

Messi was one of the players who took a stand when the board did not want to play the match against Las Palmas and these non-sporting issues don't sit well with him. His contract renewal has hit a snag during the times of political instability in Catalonia.