La Liga president Javier Tebas spoke out in support of Messi, stating that he does not view the Barcelona star as ‘a criminal.’
Tebas has urged supporters not to hold the conviction against the Argentine through fear he may look to continue his career away from Spain should he receive a torrent of abuse next season.
‘I’ve already spoken about Messi – I don’t consider him a criminal and I’m happy with him staying in La Liga,’ Tebas said on Wednesday.
Lionel Messi continued to enjoy his summer break with wife Antonella and sons Mateo and Thiago
‘There are still options for the player and we have to wait for the final decision.’
Barcelona launched a campaign earlier this week with the hashtag #WeAreAllLeoMessi, calling on fans to ‘express their sympathy’ with the player, but it was met with widespread condemnation.
-dailymail