Lionel Messi wants to leave Barcelona: 55 club, European, national and world records

The Argentine has scored more than 700 goals for club and country

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Barcelona's record scorer and talisman Lionel Messi dropped a bombshell on Tuesday by informing the club - by fax - of his intention to leave the club after nearly 20 years.

The Argentine believes he is entitled to a free transfer, something the club are sure to dispute and tell any interested clubs they must meet his €700 million (Dh3.039 billion) buyout clause.

It is entirely understandable Barca are loathe to lose six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi, given his achievements for both club and country.

Above is a picture gallery of 55 records the 33-year-old holds. Simply swipe or click on the arrows to move to the next image.