Barcelona, July 7 (IANS): After the defeat of Argentina in Copa America final last Saturday, Lionel Messi has received many signs of support from around the world, including his club FC Barcelona.

Although Messi met some criticism in last year's vital final match of the Spanish La Liga where they lost the title to Atletico Madrid, his leadership in Barcelona nowadays is already beyond discussion and has the strong support from the club who lifted the league title this year, reports Xinhua.

Top officials on Monday voiced their support for the Argentine star after the Copa America final loss to Chile.

"Leo knows that he has our wholehearted support. I only hope he will stay here for many years," said Joan Laporta, candidate for the club's presidency and who led the club in 2003 and 2010.

Outgoing Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu said: "It seems to me very bad the attacks against Messi's family. Rivals always deserve our respect, it was a very bad situation. I told Leo to rest and come back with greater strength to win the Spanish tournament, Europe's cup and Champions League."

Another presidential candidate, Agusti Benedito said: "It has no sense to discuss if Messi is an option. We totally support him, without discussion."