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Gerard Pique: Lionel Messi Has 'Earned the Right' to Choose Barcelona Exit Time

Lionel Messi has "earned the right" to choose when he leaves Barcelona, according to Gerard Pique.

Ramon Besa of El Pais recently reported that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner has a clause in his contract, which runs until 2021, that says he can opt to depart the Camp Nou at the end of any season (h/tBen Haywardin the Evening Standard).

The contracts of Carles Puyol, Xavi and Andres Iniesta all had similar stipulations during their final years at the club.

Pique said he is aware of the situation with Messi and added the Argentinian can do what he wants with his future given all he has done for Barca, per Cadena Ser (h/t Sam Marsden of ESPN FC):

"I already knew Messi is able to leave for free at the end of each season.