Luis Enrique: ‘Could Lionel Messi still reign at 40? I think so…’

ByBen Snowball

Updated 06/03/2016 at 10:59 GMT

Barcelona boss Luis Enrique believes Lionel Messi can dominate world football beyond his 40th birthday, although admits it is a premonition without scientific backing.

The Catalan giants are reportedly preparing to offer the Argentine, 28, a new contract until 2022 – tying him to Camp Nou until he is 35.

[STORY: Barcelona to give Lionel Messi new six-year contract]

However, Enrique is hopeful Messi could play at the highest level beyond that date.

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“Messi will be the world’s best player for as long as he wants, but age affects everyone,” said Enrique.

“I’d like to think he can still be the best at 40, but I have no scientific proof to say so.

“I’m a coach, and a pretty good one at that, but I’m not a magician or soothsayer.”

COULD MESSI REALLY BE SUPREME AT 40?

No, barring sudden advances that delay the aging process.

His 40th birthday is over 11 years away. If he was a goalkeeper, fair enough. But a player whose game is built on movement and speed? He’ll be lucky to get on the Ballon d’Or podium aged 32, let alone 40.

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