FC Barcelona has named forward Lionel Messi as its captain for the season 2018-19 onward. After departure of ex-captain Andres Iniesta to Japan at the end of last season, Barcelona’s frontrunner spot was left vacant and the club’s charge has now been handed to Lionel Messi. Although the 31-year-old had captained Barcelona during Iniesta’s absence due to injury last season, he will now begin the campaign as the club’s outright captain. Also read: Messi wants Barca to sign Paul Pogba Midfielder Sergio Busquets was named the second-captain, while defender Gerard Pique and Sergi Roberto were named third and fourth captains respectively. Messi, Barca’s all-time record goalscorer with 552 in all competitions, already wears the armband for the Argentina