Josep Maria Bartomeu prepares Barcelona for "the future" without Lionel Messi | Bleacher's report

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According to Josep Maria Bartomeu, the giants of La Liga are already preparing for a future without star player, Lionel Messi.

The president of the club Camp Nou entrusted to Guillem Balague the 5 live Daily football podcast (h / t BBC Sport): "My term will be completed in two seasons. So I have to leave the club in an ideal position and tell the new president: "That's our legacy". "

Leaving the Barca in a strong position from 2021, it will naturally be necessary to equip the team so that it is less dependent on Messi. Clbad No. 10 is now 31 years old and Bartomeu realizes: "OIn nine days, Lionel will say that he is retiring. "

Winning without Messi will be one of the greatest challenges in Barcelona's history.Quality Sports Images / Getty Images

To prepare for a day, Barcelona fans will rightly fear a well-defined strategy. Bartomeu described how to add youth is the key: "We bring some excellent young players to the team because we have to continue this era of success. It's our responsibility. "

The process of rejuvenation has already begun with the imminent arrival of Frenkie de Jong from Ajax. The Barca has paid £ 65.3 million to engage the multi-purpose midfielder, who will officially complete his transfer to Spain this summer.

Just 21 years old, De Jong is a burgeoning star who continues to impress audiences in Eredivisie and beyond with his technique:

De Jong is not the only early import Bartomeu has added recently. He also stamped a treat Jean-Clair Todibo, 19-year-old Toulouse central defender of Ligue 1.

Arthur Melo is a 22-year-old gaming maker who is quickly becoming a key member of the Barcelona midfielder. His compatriot Malcom also begins to adapt to life with Blaugrana.

Malcom thrived in Wednesday's 1-1 draw against Real Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final:

There is also the presence of Ousmane Dembele, who has the raw ability to become a star at Messi level. The latter has already supported France international, 21, becomes "one of the best" players in the world.

While Barca brings together an enviable contingent of young talents, it is questionable whether any of its members could well compensate for Messi's loss.

Barcelona has won four Champions League trophies since the Argentinian debuted. The club is still heavily dependent on its all-time leading scorer, with 29 goals and 17 badists in all competitions this season.

Messi remains Barca's most important player, although the club adds gifted youngsters around him.EMMANUEL DUNAND / Getty Images

These contributions have allowed Barca to retain the La Liga title. However, the biggest challenge is getting the same success beyond the day that the best player of his time calls.

Bartomeu is smart to start planning now, even though no preparation is likely to adequately replace Messi's unique talent.