Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu insists there'll never be pressure on Lionel Messi to make a decision about his playing future.

Messi, after winning a sixth Ballon d'Or a week ago, admitted retirement was now "getting closer".

Asked about the Argentine yesterday, Bartomeu told La Repubblica: "We, fans of Barca, have the chance to enjoy (Lionel) Messi every three days. There are no more adjectives to define him.

"Leo is impossible to replace and when he is gone, we will have to play differently. I cannot say that we are already preparing the post-Messi, but it is true that we have already decided to bet on young players for a long time. For now, do not worry, but enjoy.

"Before finishing my term, I would like to offer him a lifetime contract, as we did with (Andres) Iniesta. He has earned the right to choose when he will finish.

"Leo has changed not only the history of Barça, but also the history of world football."