Argentina football champion Lionel Messi was in tears as he bid an emotional adieu to Barcelona FC. As he received a standing ovation, Messi broke down and said he tried to behave with humility and respect, and hoped that it would be the memory that would be left of him.

A video of Messi's speech at his final press conference as a Barcelona player on Sunday was shared by the club. The legendary player's heartfelt words left millions of his fans across the world devastated. Messi said, "This is very difficult, I was not prepared for this. Last year I was convinced to leave, but this year we were, my family and I wanted to continue here, in our house. Today I have to say goodbye, I arrived very young at 13 years old, and after 21 years I am leaving with my wife and three children. I have no doubts after being away for several years, we will return because I promised my children."

Barcelona announced on Thursday that Messi will be leaving the La Liga club due to economic and structural obstacles. Messi, who has been part of Barcelona for 21 years, is the club's all-time top scorer with 672 goals in 778 games in all competitions.

This is the word of Leo #Messi: pic.twitter.com/k0btQ7k1py

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 8, 2021