New Delhi, Delhi, India

Lionel Messi's transfer saga has been prolonged after a recent controversy stirred by Antonio Griezemann's former agent. Many believe Man City could be Messi's new club next year after his contract expires. 

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Also read: 'We have to respect': Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman defends Lionel Messi

However, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said he is unsure what the future holds for Lionel Messi but hopes as a Barcelona fan that the Argentine forward will remain at the La Liga club until the end of his career.

"Messi's a player for Barcelona. If you ask me my opinion I have huge gratitude for what Barcelona have done for me. I want him to finish his career there," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to Tottenham Hotspur.

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"I'd love, wish, I've said a thousand times. I'd like as a Barcelona fan for him to finish his career there. I don't know what is in his mind, for now he's a Barcelona player. The transfer market is in June. This is only half in our minds."

Guardiola has signed a new contract with the English giants after winning two Premier League titles, three League Cups and the FA Cup following his arrival in 2016. 

Injury-plagued Manchester City will now take on second-placed Tottenham Hotspurs in the Premier League.