It's looking like FIFA 17 may not include Messi as the main cover star or for promotional purposes, this according to French site L'Equip.
The Argentine player has been connected with EA Sports and their footballing franchise since the release of FIFA Street in 2012, appearing in several marketing campaigns and on the covers of all FIFA games since then, but the contract between Messi and EA Sports may coming to an end.
According to L'Equip, it seems unlikely that the parties will renew the contract, which would force EA Sports to seek a new main player for their marketing purposes. The same site states that James Rodriguez, former Porto and Monaco player, and current Real Madrid star, will be the most likely candidate to replace Messi.