Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero says Lionel Messi has had chances to leave Barcelona.

Aguero has revealed that his compatriot had the chance the depart the Blaugrana in the past, but decided to stay in Catalonia.

"Even if one thousand things happen at Barcelona, Messi is going to stay there," he told Mega TV.

"Unless something catastrophic happens, although I don't think that's the case.

"I know he had the opportunity to leave Barcelona, but he stayed.

"He is a symbol and a Barcelona legend.

"In football, thousands of things always happen and thousands of players have moved, but Messi has stayed.

"It is not a question of giving him more money, he does not want to leave.

"He identifies with Barcelona and is comfortable and happy there."