Lionel Messi officially left Barcelona on Thursday after 17 seasons with the La Liga giants. It was a shocking turn of events after he previously agreed to a new five-year deal with the club, but they ultimately couldn't afford to pay the Argentine his desired wages.

The rumors are swirling as to where Messi will end up next. PSG has emerged as the frontrunner for the Barca legend, which could reunite him with former teammate Neymar. Of course, though, social media is having their fun with Lionel Messi's departure from the Blagrauna, even joking that he could bring his talents to the NBA. Just take a look at this hilarious TikTok:

@ronniefixyogame

Reply to @yocruizinn #messi #nba#meme#funny#fypシ

♬ If you see the sound follow me – ernesto

Could you imagine? A 5 foot 7 Lionel Messi just balling out in the Association. Obviously highly unlikely, but funny as hell to watch. The 34-year-old also has the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea keeping an eye on his situation, with the Blues desperate for a proven goal-scorer. The Champions League title-holders would undoubtedly have enough money to bring Lionel Messi to Stamford Bridge, but Paris seems to be his most likely destination at this moment in time.

However, you never know. Pep Guardiola could also swoop in and bring his former player to the Etihad, but the Cityzens did just sign Jack Grealish and continue to show interest in England international and Tottenham talisman Harry Kane.

Lionel Messi will have a new club soon, though, but we won't see him in the NBA except for in 2K. That's entertaining enough.