<p>Barcelona announced on Friday that the club's presidential elections have been postponed after a rise in coronavirus cases prompted heavy restrictions in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The elections were set for January 24 but the Catalonian government told the club on Friday morning that exceptions to the rules would not be made to allow people to vote.</p>

<p>The delay means Barcelona will not have a new regime in charge for the last week of the January transfer window while Lionel Messi's future is set to remain unresolved for a while longer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi's contract expires at the end of June, when he could leave the club for free, having failed in an attempt to secure an exit last summer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A new date has not been set for the elections but the club said in a statement it would ask the Catalonian government to&nbsp;allow people to vote by post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement read: "For its part, the club has understood the impossibility of holding elections on the scheduled date due to mobility restrictions decreed by the Catalan Government in the current context of pandemic, which is why the date of the elections must be&nbsp;delayed.</p>

<p>"In this sense, the club has asked the Catalan Government to evaluate the possibility of modifying the current sports legislation in order to enable voting by post on the new date of the elections, a request that the Government has undertaken to study."</p>

<p>Joan Laporta, Victor Font and Toni Freixa are the three candidates who will stand, after each gained the required number of signatures from club members. Laporta and Font are considered the two favourites to win.</p>

<p>Laporta was Barca president between 2003 and 2010, overseeing the appointment of Pep Guardiola as coach and his hugely successful first two years in charge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Laporta also claims to enjoy a close relationship with Messi and insists the Argentinian can be persuaded to stay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Font, meanwhile, has framed himself as the candidate for the future, although he has also been clear Messi signing a new contract would be a priority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Font has been keen to emphasise his close ties with Xavi Hernandez, the club's former midfielder touted as a potential replacement for Ronald Koeman as coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Laporta, Font and Freixa are bidding to succeed Josep Maria Bartomeu, who brought his turbulent tenure as president to an end in October, following mounting pressure from fans and his public falling out with Messi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After a dismal year on the pitch, Barca fans will hope a new president brings a fresh start but the winning candidate will be constrained by the club's dire financial situation, caused by an enormous wage bill and worsened by the consequences of the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shortly before Bartomeu resigned in October, Barcelona had announced losses of 97 million euros for the previous season, with debt more than doubling to 488 million euros.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team are third in La Liga, seven points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand.</p>

<p>An interim board has been led by Carles Tusquets since October. The three candidates will meet with Tusquets later on Friday when a new election schedule could be confirmed.&nbsp;</p>


Barcelona announced on Friday that the club's presidential elections have been postponed after a rise in coronavirus cases prompted heavy restrictions in the region.

Barcelona announced on Friday that the club's presidential elections have been postponed after a rise in coronavirus cases prompted heavy restrictions in the region. The elections were set for January 24 but the Catalonian government told the club on Friday morning that exceptions to the rules would not be made to allow people to vote. The delay means Barcelona will not have a new regime in charge for the last week of the January transfer window while Lionel Messi's future is set to remain unresolved for a while longer. Messi's contract expires at the end of June, when he could leave the club for free, having failed in an attempt to secure an exit last summer. A new date has not been set for the elections but the club said in a statement it would ask the Catalonian government to allow people to vote by post. The statement read: "For its part, the club has understood the impossibility of holding elections on the scheduled date due to mobility restrictions decreed by the Catalan Government in the current context of pandemic, which is why the date of the elections must be delayed. "In this sense, the club has asked the Catalan Government to evaluate the possibility of modifying the current sports legislation in order to enable voting by post on the new date of the elections, a request that the Government has undertaken to study." Joan Laporta, Victor Font and Toni Freixa are the three candidates who will stand, after each gained the required number of signatures from club members. Laporta and Font are considered the two favourites to win. Laporta was Barca president between 2003 and 2010, overseeing the appointment of Pep Guardiola as coach and his hugely successful first two years in charge. Laporta also claims to enjoy a close relationship with Messi and insists the Argentinian can be persuaded to stay. Font, meanwhile, has framed himself as the candidate for the future, although he has also been clear Messi signing a new contract would be a priority. Font has been keen to emphasise his close ties with Xavi Hernandez, the club's former midfielder touted as a potential replacement for Ronald Koeman as coach. Laporta, Font and Freixa are bidding to succeed Josep Maria Bartomeu, who brought his turbulent tenure as president to an end in October, following mounting pressure from fans and his public falling out with Messi. After a dismal year on the pitch, Barca fans will hope a new president brings a fresh start but the winning candidate will be constrained by the club's dire financial situation, caused by an enormous wage bill and worsened by the consequences of the pandemic. Shortly before Bartomeu resigned in October, Barcelona had announced losses of 97 million euros for the previous season, with debt more than doubling to 488 million euros. The team are third in La Liga, seven points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand. An interim board has been led by Carles Tusquets since October. The three candidates will meet with Tusquets later on Friday when a new election schedule could be confirmed.

Barcelona presidential elections postponed due to Covid-19 restrictions, club confirm

<p>Ronald Koeman said Barcelona can still win La Liga after Lionel Messi scored twice on Wednesday in a 3-2 win over Athletic Bilbao.</p>

<p>Messi's double helped Barca reduce the gap behind La Liga's leaders Atletico Madrid to seven points, even if Atletico will be hard to catch, given they also have two games in hand.</p>

<p>Koeman admitted last week it would be "very difficult" to close the gap but was more optimistic after the victory at San Mames.</p>

<p>"There is always a chance," he said. "The season is very long and you can have ups and downs. It may be that one team that is doing very well will later find it difficult."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barca trailed to an early Inaki Williams strike but responded with a slick attacking performance that had Messi at the heart of it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was his cross that led to Pedri's equaliser and then the Argentinian could have had a hat-trick, only for VAR and the woodwork to intervene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But this was a vintage display from the 33-year-old, perhaps his best of the season so far, at a time when his future at Barcelona remains up in the air.</p>

<p>Only a late mistake took some of the shine off Messi's night, a poor pass allowing Iker Muniain to finish and make the result look closer than it was.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bilbao had scored in the third minute and the 90th, each time exposing Barcelona's defensive frailties that remain unsolved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yet in between, Koeman's team were able to dictate the match and demonstrate why going forward they are still a force to be reckoned with.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>- 'Team is growing' -</h2>

<p>"The team is growing, playing with more confidence," said Koeman. "Sometimes we look close to our best."</p>

<p>Pedri was excellent again, his sumptuous backheel for Messi's first goal another indication of the 18-year-old's&nbsp;talent and his understanding with his captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ousmane Dembele, meanwhile, enjoyed one of those virtuouso nights where his speed, invention and confidence made him look every bit like one of the world's most exciting players.</p>

<p>"Everything starts with the player himself," said Koeman. "He gives us a lot."</p>

<p>Bilbao were playing their first game under new coach Marcelino Garcia Toral, who led Valencia to win the last completed Copa del Rey by beating Barca in the final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was springing off the bench and clenching his fists in the third minute after Williams raced in behind, touching inside the scrambling Clement Lenglet before driving home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Barcelona were invigorated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sergino Dest should have scored after a neat exchange between Messi and Antoine Griezmann before Pedri did, Messi's looping cross to the back post cushioned back across for Pedri to nod in.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dembele was almost unplayable, drifting inside one minute and darting forward the next but it was Pedri's vision that created Barca's second.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi sent him through, the youngster cutting inside before seeing Messi behind him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pedri backheeled, wrongfooting the Bilbao defence and goalkeeper, with Messi sliding in the finish.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Griezmann was denied after more good work by Dembele while Messi had a goal ruled out and then nicked the crossbar with a curling effort from distance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bilbao were still in it and might have equalised early in the second half, with the lively Williams and Raul Garcia both going close.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yet their hopes were dashed just after the hour when Messi struck again. He sent the ball wide to Griezmann via Pedri and when the pass came to the near post Messi was there to stroke in off the crossbar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi could have had his hat-trick but hit the post again when Dembele's cross was dummied by Griezmann before a misplaced Messi pass allowed Muniain to pull one back for Bilbao. It was Messi's first mistake of the night.&nbsp;</p>


Ronald Koeman said Barcelona can still win La Liga after Lionel Messi scored twice on Wednesday in a 3-2 win over Athletic Bilbao. Messi's double helped Barca reduce the gap behind La Liga's leaders Atletico Madrid to seven points, even if Atletico will be hard to catch, given they also have two games in hand.

Ronald Koeman said Barcelona can still win La Liga after Lionel Messi scored twice on Wednesday in a 3-2 win over Athletic Bilbao. Messi's double helped Barca reduce the gap behind La Liga's leaders Atletico Madrid to seven points, even if Atletico will be hard to catch, given they also have two games in hand. Koeman admitted last week it would be "very difficult" to close the gap but was more optimistic after the victory at San Mames. "There is always a chance," he said. "The season is very long and you can have ups and downs. It may be that one team that is doing very well will later find it difficult." Barca trailed to an early Inaki Williams strike but responded with a slick attacking performance that had Messi at the heart of it. It was his cross that led to Pedri's equaliser and then the Argentinian could have had a hat-trick, only for VAR and the woodwork to intervene. But this was a vintage display from the 33-year-old, perhaps his best of the season so far, at a time when his future at Barcelona remains up in the air. Only a late mistake took some of the shine off Messi's night, a poor pass allowing Iker Muniain to finish and make the result look closer than it was. Bilbao had scored in the third minute and the 90th, each time exposing Barcelona's defensive frailties that remain unsolved. Yet in between, Koeman's team were able to dictate the match and demonstrate why going forward they are still a force to be reckoned with. - 'Team is growing' - "The team is growing, playing with more confidence," said Koeman. "Sometimes we look close to our best." Pedri was excellent again, his sumptuous backheel for Messi's first goal another indication of the 18-year-old's talent and his understanding with his captain. Ousmane Dembele, meanwhile, enjoyed one of those virtuouso nights where his speed, invention and confidence made him look every bit like one of the world's most exciting players. "Everything starts with the player himself," said Koeman. "He gives us a lot." Bilbao were playing their first game under new coach Marcelino Garcia Toral, who led Valencia to win the last completed Copa del Rey by beating Barca in the final. He was springing off the bench and clenching his fists in the third minute after Williams raced in behind, touching inside the scrambling Clement Lenglet before driving home. But Barcelona were invigorated. Sergino Dest should have scored after a neat exchange between Messi and Antoine Griezmann before Pedri did, Messi's looping cross to the back post cushioned back across for Pedri to nod in. Dembele was almost unplayable, drifting inside one minute and darting forward the next but it was Pedri's vision that created Barca's second. Messi sent him through, the youngster cutting inside before seeing Messi behind him. Pedri backheeled, wrongfooting the Bilbao defence and goalkeeper, with Messi sliding in the finish. Griezmann was denied after more good work by Dembele while Messi had a goal ruled out and then nicked the crossbar with a curling effort from distance. Bilbao were still in it and might have equalised early in the second half, with the lively Williams and Raul Garcia both going close. Yet their hopes were dashed just after the hour when Messi struck again. He sent the ball wide to Griezmann via Pedri and when the pass came to the near post Messi was there to stroke in off the crossbar. Messi could have had his hat-trick but hit the post again when Dembele's cross was dummied by Griezmann before a misplaced Messi pass allowed Muniain to pull one back for Bilbao. It was Messi's first mistake of the night.

Messi double gives Barca renewed hope in La Liga title chase

<p>Barcelona won 1-0 at bottom side Huesca on Sunday as Lionel Messi became the first foreigner to make 500 appearances in Spain's La Liga, while a late Luis Suarez goal secured leaders Atletico Madrid victory against Alaves.</p>

<p>Messi returned for Barca after missing the final game of 2020 with an ankle knock and swung in a cross for Frenkie de Jong to divert home for the only goal on 27 minutes.</p>

<p>Although Ronald Koeman's side began a potentially season-defining run of four consecutive away matches with a comfortable win, they remain a distant 10 points behind Atletico in fifth having played a game more.</p>

<p>"In general, aside from the last 20 minutes we played well," said Koeman.</p>

<p>"We created a lot of danger, which isn't easy against a team that shuts up at the back. We got a great goal and we had two or three more chances to pull away." &nbsp;</p>

<p>Barca dominated possession and created a number of chances but Huesca goalkeeper Alvaro Fernandez produced several fine saves to keep the hosts in touch.</p>

<p>After De Jong's opener Messi was denied a second just before half-time when Fernandez superbly clawed away his free-kick heading towards the top corner.</p>

<p>The Argentine was again thwarted by the legs of Fernandez in the second half after combining well with Pedri, moments after Marc-Andre ter Stegen reacted sharply to keep out Rafa Mir's inventive back-heel.</p>

<p>That was a rare threat from Huesca who have now won just once in 17 tries this season but had taken points off most visitors to their Estadio El Alcoraz so far, including Atletico in September.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We came out strong and very concentrated. It's the main base we need. If we have that, we improve a lot with the ball and if we get better in front of goal then we can have a very good start to the year," added Koeman.</p>

<h2>- Suarez the saviour -</h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, Suarez struck a 90th-minute winner for Atletico as they defeated 10-man Alaves 2-1 to move back above Real Madrid at the top.</p>

<p>Marcos Llorente gave Atletico the lead at Mendizorroza shortly before half-time with a deflected strike from just outside the area.</p>

<p>Diego Simeone's side appeared to have the game under control when Alaves defender Victor Laguardia was sent off on the hour following a VAR review for chopping down Thomas Lemar as the Frenchman ran towards goal.</p>

<p>Florian Lejeune headed against the post for Alaves before a spectacular own goal on 84 minutes from Felipe threatened to cost Atletico two vital points, the Brazilian centre-back&nbsp;drilling beyond Jan Oblak as he attempted to hack clear an attempted cross.</p>

<p>However, Suarez secured Atletico's fourth consecutive win in the final minute as the Uruguayan tapped in from close range after the ball was slotted across goal by substitute Joao Felix.</p>

<p>"The best thing is how the team finished, not getting nervous, just playing. And the goal was a great goal," said Simeone.</p>

<p>Atletico climbed two points clear of Real Madrid and have two games in hand on the defending champions.</p>

<p>"The takeaway from this is to continue on the same path," added Simeone.</p>

<p>Athletic Bilbao sacked coach Gaizka Garitano following a 1-0 home win over Elche, with reports in Spain linking former Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde to the vacant job.</p>

<p>Real Sociedad lost more ground on the top two after they could only manage a 1-1 draw at home to struggling Osasuna, while teenager Bryan Gil scored both goals in Eibar's 2-0 defeat of Granada.</p>


Barcelona won 1-0 at bottom side Huesca on Sunday as Lionel Messi became the first foreigner to make 500 appearances in Spain's La Liga, while a late Luis Suarez goal secured leaders Atletico Madrid victory against Alaves.

Barcelona won 1-0 at bottom side Huesca on Sunday as Lionel Messi became the first foreigner to make 500 appearances in Spain's La Liga, while a late Luis Suarez goal secured leaders Atletico Madrid victory against Alaves. Messi returned for Barca after missing the final game of 2020 with an ankle knock and swung in a cross for Frenkie de Jong to divert home for the only goal on 27 minutes. Although Ronald Koeman's side began a potentially season-defining run of four consecutive away matches with a comfortable win, they remain a distant 10 points behind Atletico in fifth having played a game more. "In general, aside from the last 20 minutes we played well," said Koeman. "We created a lot of danger, which isn't easy against a team that shuts up at the back. We got a great goal and we had two or three more chances to pull away." Barca dominated possession and created a number of chances but Huesca goalkeeper Alvaro Fernandez produced several fine saves to keep the hosts in touch. After De Jong's opener Messi was denied a second just before half-time when Fernandez superbly clawed away his free-kick heading towards the top corner. The Argentine was again thwarted by the legs of Fernandez in the second half after combining well with Pedri, moments after Marc-Andre ter Stegen reacted sharply to keep out Rafa Mir's inventive back-heel. That was a rare threat from Huesca who have now won just once in 17 tries this season but had taken points off most visitors to their Estadio El Alcoraz so far, including Atletico in September. "We came out strong and very concentrated. It's the main base we need. If we have that, we improve a lot with the ball and if we get better in front of goal then we can have a very good start to the year," added Koeman. - Suarez the saviour - Earlier in the day, Suarez struck a 90th-minute winner for Atletico as they defeated 10-man Alaves 2-1 to move back above Real Madrid at the top. Marcos Llorente gave Atletico the lead at Mendizorroza shortly before half-time with a deflected strike from just outside the area. Diego Simeone's side appeared to have the game under control when Alaves defender Victor Laguardia was sent off on the hour following a VAR review for chopping down Thomas Lemar as the Frenchman ran towards goal. Florian Lejeune headed against the post for Alaves before a spectacular own goal on 84 minutes from Felipe threatened to cost Atletico two vital points, the Brazilian centre-back drilling beyond Jan Oblak as he attempted to hack clear an attempted cross. However, Suarez secured Atletico's fourth consecutive win in the final minute as the Uruguayan tapped in from close range after the ball was slotted across goal by substitute Joao Felix. "The best thing is how the team finished, not getting nervous, just playing. And the goal was a great goal," said Simeone. Atletico climbed two points clear of Real Madrid and have two games in hand on the defending champions. "The takeaway from this is to continue on the same path," added Simeone. Athletic Bilbao sacked coach Gaizka Garitano following a 1-0 home win over Elche, with reports in Spain linking former Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde to the vacant job. Real Sociedad lost more ground on the top two after they could only manage a 1-1 draw at home to struggling Osasuna, while teenager Bryan Gil scored both goals in Eibar's 2-0 defeat of Granada.

Barca triumph as Messi makes 500th Liga appearance

<p>Midfielder Philipe Coutinho has added to injury-plagued Barcelona's woes as he underwent left knee surgery and will be sidelined for "around three months," the club revealed on Saturday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mikel-arteta-to-decide-on-mesut-ozils-future-after-january-transfer-window-354040" hreflang="en">Mikel Arteta to decide on Mesut Ozil's future after January transfer window</a></p>

<p>Coutinho sustained an injury during Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Eibar. The 28-year-old midfielder was brought into the game during the second half of the match, however, he was seen limping off the pitch during the stoppage time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team had earlier announced that Coutinho will undergo surgery.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>IN PICS|&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lionel-messi-gerd-muller-pele-players-with-most-goals-scored-for-one-club-351886" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi, Gerd Müller, Pele: Players with most goals scored for one club</a></p>

<p>"The tests carried out on the first team player Philippe Coutinho have shown that the midfielder has an injury to the lateral meniscus in his left knee," the club said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Treatment will necessitate arthroscopic surgery which will take place in the coming days."</p>

<p>The Catalan giant did not mention the timeframe of his return.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Coutinho joins the injury list of Gerard Pique, Ansu Fati and Sergi Roberto adding to woes to Barcelona's torrid season.</p>


Midfielder Philipe Coutinho has added to injury-plagued Barcelona's woes as he underwent left knee surgery and will be sidelined for "around three months," the club revealed on Saturday.

Midfielder Philipe Coutinho has added to injury-plagued Barcelona's woes as he underwent left knee surgery and will be sidelined for "around three months," the club revealed on Saturday. ALSO READ: Mikel Arteta to decide on Mesut Ozil's future after January transfer window Coutinho sustained an injury during Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Eibar. The 28-year-old midfielder was brought into the game during the second half of the match, however, he was seen limping off the pitch during the stoppage time. The team had earlier announced that Coutinho will undergo surgery. IN PICS| Lionel Messi, Gerd Müller, Pele: Players with most goals scored for one club "The tests carried out on the first team player Philippe Coutinho have shown that the midfielder has an injury to the lateral meniscus in his left knee," the club said in a statement. "Treatment will necessitate arthroscopic surgery which will take place in the coming days." The Catalan giant did not mention the timeframe of his return. Coutinho joins the injury list of Gerard Pique, Ansu Fati and Sergi Roberto adding to woes to Barcelona's torrid season.

Barcelona's Philippe Coutinho out for three months due to surgery

<p>Barcelona star Philippe Coutinho will undergo knee surgery after sustaining an injury during Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Eibar, the Spanish club said on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-very-concerned-west-broms-sam-allardyce-calls-for-circuit-break-in-premier-league-353384" hreflang="en">West Brom's Sam Allardyce calls for 'circuit-break' in Premier League</a></p>

<p>The 28-year-old midfielder was brought into the game during the second half of the match, however, he was seen limping off the pitch during the stoppage time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The tests carried out on the first team player Philippe Coutinho have shown that the midfielder has an injury to the lateral meniscus in his left knee," the club said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Treatment will necessitate arthroscopic surgery which will take place in the coming days."</p>

<p>The Catalan giant did not mention the timeframe of his return.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Coutinho joins the injury list of Gerard Pique, Ansu Fati and Sergi Roberto adding to woes to Barcelona's torrid season. The Spanish giant it sixth in the La Liga standings on 25 points from 15 games, seven behind leaders Atletico Madrid who have two games in hand.</p>


Barcelona star Philippe Coutinho will undergo knee surgery after sustaining an injury during Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Eibar, the Spanish club said on Wednesday. ALSO READ: West Brom's Sam Allardyce calls for 'circuit-break' in Premier League The 28-year-old midfielder was brought into the game during the second half of the match, however, he was seen limping off the pitch during the stoppage time.

Barcelona star Philippe Coutinho will undergo knee surgery after sustaining an injury during Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Eibar, the Spanish club said on Wednesday. ALSO READ: West Brom's Sam Allardyce calls for 'circuit-break' in Premier League The 28-year-old midfielder was brought into the game during the second half of the match, however, he was seen limping off the pitch during the stoppage time. "The tests carried out on the first team player Philippe Coutinho have shown that the midfielder has an injury to the lateral meniscus in his left knee," the club said in a statement. "Treatment will necessitate arthroscopic surgery which will take place in the coming days." The Catalan giant did not mention the timeframe of his return. Coutinho joins the injury list of Gerard Pique, Ansu Fati and Sergi Roberto adding to woes to Barcelona's torrid season. The Spanish giant it sixth in the La Liga standings on 25 points from 15 games, seven behind leaders Atletico Madrid who have two games in hand.

Coutinho to undergo knee surgery after injury during Eibar clash

<p>Barcelona is off to the worst start in decades and their woeful run extended after settling for 1-1 draw against Eibar. Lionel Messi's reaction became the talking point after the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Argentina star, who missed the playing XI due to an injury, left the stands dejected after the final whistle. Barcelona were predicted to get an easy win against 'relegation contenders' Eibar at home.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lionel Messi at the end of the game. This hurts. <a href="https://t.co/SLsvNdeqAv">pic.twitter.com/SLsvNdeqAv</a></p>
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarcaUniversal/status/1344015915902492672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, the Catalan giants failed to establish their dominance as Eibar striker Kike opened the scoring in the 57th minute. Despite Ousmane Dembele's equaliser 10 minutes later, the home side failed to get a winner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Catalans were dominant with possession with 74 per cent but failed to win the match. After the referee blew the full-time whistle, a dismal Messi's reaction to the result was all fans talked about on social media.</p>

<p>“Again tonight we did well. We worked really hard. We did everything, we changed the team, we played one against one in the last 10 minutes. We did enough to win the game but finally, we don’t win and that’s happened often," said Koeman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We deserved to win. We did enough, we created enough chances to score, we did not score the penalty and then a big mistake in defence and it was one shot on goal from Eibar and it’s 0-1.”</p>

<p>With 15 matches, 7 wins, 4 draws and 4 losses, Barcelona continue to be in the mid-table position.</p>


Barcelona is off to the worst start in decades and their woeful run extended after settling for 1-1 draw against Eibar. Lionel Messi's reaction became the talking point after the match.

Barcelona is off to the worst start in decades and their woeful run extended after settling for 1-1 draw against Eibar. Lionel Messi's reaction became the talking point after the match. The Argentina star, who missed the playing XI due to an injury, left the stands dejected after the final whistle. Barcelona were predicted to get an easy win against 'relegation contenders' Eibar at home. Lionel Messi at the end of the game. This hurts. pic.twitter.com/SLsvNdeqAv — Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) December 29, 2020 × However, the Catalan giants failed to establish their dominance as Eibar striker Kike opened the scoring in the 57th minute. Despite Ousmane Dembele's equaliser 10 minutes later, the home side failed to get a winner. The Catalans were dominant with possession with 74 per cent but failed to win the match. After the referee blew the full-time whistle, a dismal Messi's reaction to the result was all fans talked about on social media. “Again tonight we did well. We worked really hard. We did everything, we changed the team, we played one against one in the last 10 minutes. We did enough to win the game but finally, we don’t win and that’s happened often," said Koeman. “We deserved to win. We did enough, we created enough chances to score, we did not score the penalty and then a big mistake in defence and it was one shot on goal from Eibar and it’s 0-1.” With 15 matches, 7 wins, 4 draws and 4 losses, Barcelona continue to be in the mid-table position.

WATCH- Lionel Messi's reaction after disappointing draw against Eibar goes viral!

<p>Lionel Messi missed Barcelona`s return to training on Monday after being granted permission by the club to stay in Argentina, and he will also be absent from Tuesday`s La Liga match at home to Eibar.<br />
<br />
Barca said on Twitter that Messi, who is in the last year of his contract and is free to negotiate a move to rival clubs for free in 2021, would return to training after the Eibar game, meaning he will be back for their visit to Huesca on Jan. 3.<br />
<br />
The Argentine returned to his home city of Rosario via private jet immediately after scoring in his side`s 3-0 win away to Real Valladolid on Dec. 22.<br />
<br />
The Catalan club did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Messi`s absence, although Spanish media reports said it was to give the captain more time to rest in what has been a challenging season for their all-time top scorer.<br />
<br />
Messi has started 17 of Barca`s 20 games in all competitions this season and although he is their top scorer with 10 goals, it has been his worst start to a campaign in 13 seasons in terms of goals and assists.<br />
<br />
Barca`s captain said last week he had dragged the ill feeling from his attempt to leave in August into this season but was feeling happier now and was focused on helping the team, fifth in the league, challenge for trophies.</p>


Lionel Messi missed Barcelona`s return to training on Monday after being granted permission by the club to stay in Argentina, and he will also be absent from Tuesday`s La Liga match at home to Eibar.

Lionel Messi missed Barcelona`s return to training on Monday after being granted permission by the club to stay in Argentina, and he will also be absent from Tuesday`s La Liga match at home to Eibar. Barca said on Twitter that Messi, who is in the last year of his contract and is free to negotiate a move to rival clubs for free in 2021, would return to training after the Eibar game, meaning he will be back for their visit to Huesca on Jan. 3. The Argentine returned to his home city of Rosario via private jet immediately after scoring in his side`s 3-0 win away to Real Valladolid on Dec. 22. The Catalan club did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Messi`s absence, although Spanish media reports said it was to give the captain more time to rest in what has been a challenging season for their all-time top scorer. Messi has started 17 of Barca`s 20 games in all competitions this season and although he is their top scorer with 10 goals, it has been his worst start to a campaign in 13 seasons in terms of goals and assists. Barca`s captain said last week he had dragged the ill feeling from his attempt to leave in August into this season but was feeling happier now and was focused on helping the team, fifth in the league, challenge for trophies.

Lionel Messi given extended break, will miss match vs Eibar

<p>Barcelona and Spain’s legendary defender Carles Puyol feels that Lionel Messi still has three to four years at the highest level if he doesn’t pick up a serious injury. Messi at Barcelona broke Pele’s record of scoring the most number of goals for a single club and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all-time even more. Messi scored his 644th goal for Barcelona while surpassing Pele’s 643 goals for Santos.</p>

<p>Puyol said that Messi, despite being 33 years old, is motivated and eager to keep going at the highest level.</p>

<p>"He is now 33 years old and takes care of himself. He is motivated and eager, and I think he has three or four years to go at this level if he is lucky enough to not have any major injuries and if he continues playing with the same desire to improve and keep winning, with that motivation. I think we still have Leo for a while," Goal.com quoted Puyol as saying.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/salah-is-happy-at-liverpool-says-klopp-352242" hreflang="en">Salah is happy at Liverpool, says Klopp</a></strong></p>

<p>Taking back on Messi’s career, where the Argentine has been at the peak for almost 15 years, Puyol said: "I am sure that talent is not enough. Talent is needed, of course, but also work and dedication, a desire to learn and be motivated to seek new challenges every day. We have seen it in Messi.</p>

<p>"He is not the same player today as he was when he started. He has been adding records and improving, he is a very complete player who can set the rhythm of the game, score free kicks, goals, give assists. He does practically everything!" he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-gabriel-jesus-kyle-walker-test-positive-for-covid-19-to-miss-crucial-matches-352328" hreflang="en">Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus, Kyle Walker test positive for COVID-19, to miss crucial matches</a></strong></p>

<p>Puyol added that Messi has evolved over the years and became even more impressive while lauding him the “best of all time”.</p>

<p>"In the beginning, he was very good, but one of those players who you give the ball and he does his individual move. He made the difference and scored goals. He was already very good [at a young age], but over the years he has become an even more impressive player, the best of all time," he said.</p>

<p>Puyol was part of the Barcelona team when Messi made his senior debut in 2004 against Espanyol. As Messi kept on growing in stature, he brought laurels to Barcelona and made them one of the scariest sides in world football.</p>


Barcelona and Spain’s legendary defender Carles Puyol feels that Lionel Messi still has three to four years at the highest level if he doesn’t pick up a serious injury.

Barcelona and Spain’s legendary defender Carles Puyol feels that Lionel Messi still has three to four years at the highest level if he doesn’t pick up a serious injury. Messi at Barcelona broke Pele’s record of scoring the most number of goals for a single club and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all-time even more. Messi scored his 644th goal for Barcelona while surpassing Pele’s 643 goals for Santos. Puyol said that Messi, despite being 33 years old, is motivated and eager to keep going at the highest level. "He is now 33 years old and takes care of himself. He is motivated and eager, and I think he has three or four years to go at this level if he is lucky enough to not have any major injuries and if he continues playing with the same desire to improve and keep winning, with that motivation. I think we still have Leo for a while," Goal.com quoted Puyol as saying. ALSO READ: Salah is happy at Liverpool, says Klopp Taking back on Messi’s career, where the Argentine has been at the peak for almost 15 years, Puyol said: "I am sure that talent is not enough. Talent is needed, of course, but also work and dedication, a desire to learn and be motivated to seek new challenges every day. We have seen it in Messi. "He is not the same player today as he was when he started. He has been adding records and improving, he is a very complete player who can set the rhythm of the game, score free kicks, goals, give assists. He does practically everything!" he added. ALSO READ: Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus, Kyle Walker test positive for COVID-19, to miss crucial matches Puyol added that Messi has evolved over the years and became even more impressive while lauding him the “best of all time”. "In the beginning, he was very good, but one of those players who you give the ball and he does his individual move. He made the difference and scored goals. He was already very good [at a young age], but over the years he has become an even more impressive player, the best of all time," he said. Puyol was part of the Barcelona team when Messi made his senior debut in 2004 against Espanyol. As Messi kept on growing in stature, he brought laurels to Barcelona and made them one of the scariest sides in world football.

Lionel Messi still has 3-4 years at highest level, reckons Carles Puyol

<p>Lionel Messi overtook Pele's record of goals for a single club on Tuesday as Barcelona strolled to a 3-0 La Liga win at Real Valladolid, while Atletico Madrid kept hold of their place at the top of the table.</p>

<p>Messi struck his 644th goal for Barca, one more than Brazil legend Pele scored for Santos, in the 65th minute of a routine win for Ronald Koeman's side, who are fifth in La Liga after the win and eight points behind leaders Atletico.</p>

<p>The Argentine, who had looked out of sorts this season after trying to leave the club in the summer, was at the heart of a powerful Barca performance against admittedly poor opposition.</p>

<p>Catalan giants Barca have won three of their last four matches after two embarrassing defeats to Cadiz and Juventus earlier this month.</p>

<p>"I see Messi happy. He is working hard, and he is a very important part of our attacking game," said Koeman after the win.</p>

<p>Barca started on the front foot at the Jose Zorrilla Stadium, with Messi flashing a curling shot wide in the seventh minute and forcing a superb save from Jordi Masip in the 20th minute.</p>

<p>Barca took the lead seconds later when Messi clipped over a beautiful cross which France defender Clement Lenglet headed home.</p>

<p>Martin Braithwaite gave the away side a deserved second 14 minutes later, Messi slipping through Sergio Dest who rolled over a perfect low cross for the Danish international to tap home.</p>

<p>Messi scored the landmark goal his excellent performance deserved with a simple finish after bursting through to collect Pedri's delicate backheeled assist.</p>

<p>The easy win puts Barca two points behind Sociedad and fourth-placed Villarreal, who drew 1-1 at home with Athletic Bilbao.</p>

<h2>- Atleti stay top -</h2>

<p>Earlier second-half goals from Mario Hermoso and Marcos Llorente earned Atletico a 2-0 win away at a Sociedad team that started the fixture three points off the lead but are now six back in third after their third straight league defeat.</p>

<p>Diego Simeone's side are three clear of second-placed Real Madrid, who can move level again with their city rivals with a home win over Granada on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Atletico know that however Madrid fare that they will have played two fewer games than the reigning champions, while Sociedad have played three games more than the leaders.</p>

<p>The win was Simeone's 300th league win as Atletico coach.</p>

<p>"It's means a lot, really a lot," the Argentine said.</p>

<p>"I came here with the idea of taking Atletico to the summit of the game ... I can't thank the club enough for what they have given me."</p>

<p>Sociedad were the better side in the first half but couldn't carve a goalscoring opportunity in an opening period without a shot on target.</p>

<p>Atletico went ahead just three minutes after the break when Hermoso found himself unmarked in the area and perfectly met Yannick Carrasco's free-kick to send a header flying into the bottom corner.</p>

<p>Atletico sealed the points with 16 minutes remaining, Llorente lashing home when the ball fell to him on the edge of the area to complete a textbook away performance.</p>

<p>Sevilla are sixth, nine points behind Atletico after Suso fired them to a 1-0 win at struggling Valencia.</p>

<p>Suso gave the Andalusians the points with a thumping strike in the 81st minute after charging through to collect a Joan Jordan through ball.</p>

<p>Valencia are 13th and just a point above the relegation zone after their sixth consecutive league match without a win.&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi overtook Pele's record of goals for a single club on Tuesday as Barcelona strolled to a 3-0 La Liga win at Real Valladolid, while Atletico Madrid kept hold of their place at the top of the table.

Lionel Messi overtook Pele's record of goals for a single club on Tuesday as Barcelona strolled to a 3-0 La Liga win at Real Valladolid, while Atletico Madrid kept hold of their place at the top of the table. Messi struck his 644th goal for Barca, one more than Brazil legend Pele scored for Santos, in the 65th minute of a routine win for Ronald Koeman's side, who are fifth in La Liga after the win and eight points behind leaders Atletico. The Argentine, who had looked out of sorts this season after trying to leave the club in the summer, was at the heart of a powerful Barca performance against admittedly poor opposition. Catalan giants Barca have won three of their last four matches after two embarrassing defeats to Cadiz and Juventus earlier this month. "I see Messi happy. He is working hard, and he is a very important part of our attacking game," said Koeman after the win. Barca started on the front foot at the Jose Zorrilla Stadium, with Messi flashing a curling shot wide in the seventh minute and forcing a superb save from Jordi Masip in the 20th minute. Barca took the lead seconds later when Messi clipped over a beautiful cross which France defender Clement Lenglet headed home. Martin Braithwaite gave the away side a deserved second 14 minutes later, Messi slipping through Sergio Dest who rolled over a perfect low cross for the Danish international to tap home. Messi scored the landmark goal his excellent performance deserved with a simple finish after bursting through to collect Pedri's delicate backheeled assist. The easy win puts Barca two points behind Sociedad and fourth-placed Villarreal, who drew 1-1 at home with Athletic Bilbao. - Atleti stay top - Earlier second-half goals from Mario Hermoso and Marcos Llorente earned Atletico a 2-0 win away at a Sociedad team that started the fixture three points off the lead but are now six back in third after their third straight league defeat. Diego Simeone's side are three clear of second-placed Real Madrid, who can move level again with their city rivals with a home win over Granada on Wednesday. Atletico know that however Madrid fare that they will have played two fewer games than the reigning champions, while Sociedad have played three games more than the leaders. The win was Simeone's 300th league win as Atletico coach. "It's means a lot, really a lot," the Argentine said. "I came here with the idea of taking Atletico to the summit of the game ... I can't thank the club enough for what they have given me." Sociedad were the better side in the first half but couldn't carve a goalscoring opportunity in an opening period without a shot on target. Atletico went ahead just three minutes after the break when Hermoso found himself unmarked in the area and perfectly met Yannick Carrasco's free-kick to send a header flying into the bottom corner. Atletico sealed the points with 16 minutes remaining, Llorente lashing home when the ball fell to him on the edge of the area to complete a textbook away performance. Sevilla are sixth, nine points behind Atletico after Suso fired them to a 1-0 win at struggling Valencia. Suso gave the Andalusians the points with a thumping strike in the 81st minute after charging through to collect a Joan Jordan through ball. Valencia are 13th and just a point above the relegation zone after their sixth consecutive league match without a win.

Messi overtakes Pele's goal record as Atletico cement Liga lead

<p>Argentina star<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-and-cristiano-ronaldo-near-couple-of-significant-records-held-by-pele-350498"> Lionel Messi</a>,33, equalled Brazilian legend Pele's record 643 goals for a single club but his personal exploits were&nbsp;not good enough as Barcelona had to settle for a draw at home against Valencia in the <strong>La Liga</strong>.</p>

<p>Messi was lucky to get his record-equalling feat as he initially missed a penalty but Jordi Alba kept the ball alive and deflected the cross which was headed home by the Argentine.</p>

<p>Barcelona had fallen behind after a goal from Mouctar Diakhaby but Messi equalised&nbsp;as <strong>Antoine Griezmann </strong>earned a penalty for the Catalans. Barcelona went ahead after a scissor strike from Uruguayan international Ronald Araujo.</p>

<p>The match took another turn as Valencia's Maxi Gomez got in front of defender Oscar Mingueza to turn in a cross and equalise.</p>

<p>In a duel&nbsp;of legends, Messi has taken several more games to dismount the Brazilian superhero as <strong>Pele </strong>had scored 643 goals in 665 games for Santos, while Messi took 748 matches to reach the tally.</p>

<p>Pele who debuted for <strong>Santos</strong> aged 15 had joined<strong>&nbsp;</strong>the club<strong>&nbsp;</strong>in 1956 and played until 1974 as Brazil became multiple world champions. The Brazilian star helped Santos clinch six national league titles and two <strong>Copa Libertadores Cup</strong>.</p>

<p>Messi joined Barcelona aged 17 in 2004 and has helped win the club 10 La Liga titles and four <strong>Champions Leagues</strong>.</p>

<p>Barcelona is currently eight points behind leaders <strong>Atletico Madrid</strong> who beat Elche 3-1 to maintain their supremacy.</p>


Argentina star Lionel Messi,33, equalled Brazilian legend Pele's record 643 goals for a single club but his personal exploits were not good enough as Barcelona had to settle for a draw at home against Valencia in the La Liga.

Argentina star Lionel Messi,33, equalled Brazilian legend Pele's record 643 goals for a single club but his personal exploits were not good enough as Barcelona had to settle for a draw at home against Valencia in the La Liga. Messi was lucky to get his record-equalling feat as he initially missed a penalty but Jordi Alba kept the ball alive and deflected the cross which was headed home by the Argentine. Barcelona had fallen behind after a goal from Mouctar Diakhaby but Messi equalised as Antoine Griezmann earned a penalty for the Catalans. Barcelona went ahead after a scissor strike from Uruguayan international Ronald Araujo. The match took another turn as Valencia's Maxi Gomez got in front of defender Oscar Mingueza to turn in a cross and equalise. In a duel of legends, Messi has taken several more games to dismount the Brazilian superhero as Pele had scored 643 goals in 665 games for Santos, while Messi took 748 matches to reach the tally. Pele who debuted for Santos aged 15 had joined the club in 1956 and played until 1974 as Brazil became multiple world champions. The Brazilian star helped Santos clinch six national league titles and two Copa Libertadores Cup. Messi joined Barcelona aged 17 in 2004 and has helped win the club 10 La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues. Barcelona is currently eight points behind leaders Atletico Madrid who beat Elche 3-1 to maintain their supremacy.

Barcelona star Messi equals Pele's record of 643 goals for a single club

There is a new addition to traditional Christmas market in Barcelona this year. A store has been setup exclusively to sell face masks, selling non-surgical reusable face masks called urban masks. here the report

A new kind of Christmas gift in 2020

<p>Brazilian football great Pele congratulated Lionel Messi for equalling his record of scoring most goals for a single club on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi was lucky to get his record-equalling feat as he initially missed a penalty but Jordi Alba kept the ball alive and deflected the cross which was headed home by the Argentine.</p>

<p>“When your heart overflows with love, it is difficult to change your path. Like you, I know what it’s like to love wearing the same shirt every day,” Pele, the only player to win the World Cup three times, wrote on Instagram.</p>

<p>“Like you, I know that there is nothing better than the place we feel at home. Congratulations on your historic record, Lionel. But above all, congratulations on your beautiful career at Barcelona.</p>

<p>“Stories like ours, of loving the same club for so long, unfortunately, will be increasingly rare in football. I admire you very much.”</p>

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<p>In a duel of legends, Messi has taken several more games to dismount the Brazilian superhero as Pele had scored 643 goals in 665 games for Santos, while Messi took 748 matches to reach the tally.</p>

<p>Pele who debuted for Santos aged 15 had joined the club in 1956 and played until 1974 as Brazil became multiple world champions. The Brazilian star helped Santos clinch six national league titles and two Copa Libertadores Cup.</p>

<p>Messi joined Barcelona aged 17 in 2004 and has helped win the club 10 La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.</p>

<p>Barcelona is currently eight points behind leaders Atletico Madrid who beat Elche 3-1 to maintain their supremacy.</p>


Brazilian football great Pele congratulated Lionel Messi for equalling his record of scoring most goals for a single club on Saturday. Messi was lucky to get his record-equalling feat as he initially missed a penalty but Jordi Alba kept the ball alive and deflected the cross which was headed home by the Argentine.

Brazilian football great Pele congratulated Lionel Messi for equalling his record of scoring most goals for a single club on Saturday. Messi was lucky to get his record-equalling feat as he initially missed a penalty but Jordi Alba kept the ball alive and deflected the cross which was headed home by the Argentine. “When your heart overflows with love, it is difficult to change your path. Like you, I know what it’s like to love wearing the same shirt every day,” Pele, the only player to win the World Cup three times, wrote on Instagram. “Like you, I know that there is nothing better than the place we feel at home. Congratulations on your historic record, Lionel. But above all, congratulations on your beautiful career at Barcelona. “Stories like ours, of loving the same club for so long, unfortunately, will be increasingly rare in football. I admire you very much.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pelé (@pele) × In a duel of legends, Messi has taken several more games to dismount the Brazilian superhero as Pele had scored 643 goals in 665 games for Santos, while Messi took 748 matches to reach the tally. Pele who debuted for Santos aged 15 had joined the club in 1956 and played until 1974 as Brazil became multiple world champions. The Brazilian star helped Santos clinch six national league titles and two Copa Libertadores Cup. Messi joined Barcelona aged 17 in 2004 and has helped win the club 10 La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues. Barcelona is currently eight points behind leaders Atletico Madrid who beat Elche 3-1 to maintain their supremacy.

'I admire you very much': Pele congratulates Lionel Messi for equalling goal record

<p>Barcelona will hold presidential elections on January 24 after the managerial committee which has run the club since Josep Maria Bartomeu's October resignation agreed on the date.</p>

<p>"The Management Committee has agreed to call elections for the club's presidency and Board of Directors. Voting will be held on January 24, 2021," the body said in a statement.</p>

<p>The final approval comes after Barca reached an agreement with the Catalan regional government two weeks ago.</p>

<p>Coronavirus concerns have made this the first time the club's elections have been decentralised, with 10 voting locations for Barca's 110,000 members dotted around Spain.</p>

<p>They can cast their vote at Barca's Camp Nou as well as in the cities of Girona, Tarragona, Tortosa, Lleida, Madrid, Valencia, Seville, Palma and Andorran capital Andorra la Vella.</p>

<p>Among the seven candidates for election is former president Joan Laporta, who made his candidacy official two weeks ago.</p>

<p>Laporta was at the helm from 2003-2010, a period which included four La Liga titles and two Champions League triumphs.</p>


Barcelona will hold presidential elections on January 24 after the managerial committee which has run the club since Josep Maria Bartomeu's October resignation agreed on the date.

Barcelona will hold presidential elections on January 24 after the managerial committee which has run the club since Josep Maria Bartomeu's October resignation agreed on the date. "The Management Committee has agreed to call elections for the club's presidency and Board of Directors. Voting will be held on January 24, 2021," the body said in a statement. The final approval comes after Barca reached an agreement with the Catalan regional government two weeks ago. Coronavirus concerns have made this the first time the club's elections have been decentralised, with 10 voting locations for Barca's 110,000 members dotted around Spain. They can cast their vote at Barca's Camp Nou as well as in the cities of Girona, Tarragona, Tortosa, Lleida, Madrid, Valencia, Seville, Palma and Andorran capital Andorra la Vella. Among the seven candidates for election is former president Joan Laporta, who made his candidacy official two weeks ago. Laporta was at the helm from 2003-2010, a period which included four La Liga titles and two Champions League triumphs.

Barca confirm presidential elections on January 24

<p>Italian giants Juventus had the last laugh against Barcelona on the pitch and in the social media after Ronaldo's brace helped them beat the Catalan club 3-0 at Camp Nuo on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Juventus wasted no time in trolling Barcelona after the Spanish club took a cheeky swipe at them in October when Barcelona defeated the Italian club in Turin. Messi scored one of the two goals in the match, after which the club took to Twitter to share their skipper's photo and wrote: "We are glad you were able to see the (goat) on your pitch, @juventusfcen!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are glad you were able to see the 🐐 on your pitch, <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@juventusfcen</a>! 😘 <a href="https://t.co/yh74wh0lNJ">pic.twitter.com/yh74wh0lNJ</a></p>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1321573012894896133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Juventus replied at the time with a simple message: "You probably looked it up in the wrong dictionary. We'll bring you the right one at Camp Nou."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You probably looked it up in the wrong dictionary. We'll bring you the right one at Camp Nou 🔍📖</p>
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<p>Well, Ronaldo missed the previous fixture after he was tested for COVID-19. However, he returned for the reverse fixture at Camp Nou. The Portuguese star was booed as he landed into Barcelona. Ronaldo went on to score two crucial penalties to but the Italian side at the front.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Ronaldo's performance, Juventus took to Twitter and wrote: "We kept our word: we brought it!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We kept our word: we brought it! 📖🐐🔥 <a href="https://t.co/EMOPTzYEFx">https://t.co/EMOPTzYEFx</a> <a href="https://t.co/mqr5aKA5cC">pic.twitter.com/mqr5aKA5cC</a></p>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1336435446050643968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Last time Ronaldo and Messi met on the pitch was back in 2018. The Portuguese superstar took to Twitter after the match to share his delight in playing at the Camp Nou again and "against one of the best teams I ever faced."</p>

<p>"Always great to return to Spain and to Catalunya, always hard to play in Camp Nou against one of the best teams I ever faced.</p>

<p>"Today we were a team of Champions [sic]! A true, strong and united family! Playing like this, we have nothing to fear until the end of the season... Let's go!"</p>


Italian giants Juventus had the last laugh against Barcelona on the pitch and in the social media after Ronaldo's brace helped them beat the Catalan club 3-0 at Camp Nuo on Tuesday.

Italian giants Juventus had the last laugh against Barcelona on the pitch and in the social media after Ronaldo's brace helped them beat the Catalan club 3-0 at Camp Nuo on Tuesday. Juventus wasted no time in trolling Barcelona after the Spanish club took a cheeky swipe at them in October when Barcelona defeated the Italian club in Turin. Messi scored one of the two goals in the match, after which the club took to Twitter to share their skipper's photo and wrote: "We are glad you were able to see the (goat) on your pitch, @juventusfcen!" We are glad you were able to see the 🐐 on your pitch, @juventusfcen! 😘 pic.twitter.com/yh74wh0lNJ — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 28, 2020 × Juventus replied at the time with a simple message: "You probably looked it up in the wrong dictionary. We'll bring you the right one at Camp Nou." You probably looked it up in the wrong dictionary. We'll bring you the right one at Camp Nou 🔍📖 — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) October 28, 2020 × Well, Ronaldo missed the previous fixture after he was tested for COVID-19. However, he returned for the reverse fixture at Camp Nou. The Portuguese star was booed as he landed into Barcelona. Ronaldo went on to score two crucial penalties to but the Italian side at the front. After Ronaldo's performance, Juventus took to Twitter and wrote: "We kept our word: we brought it!" We kept our word: we brought it! 📖🐐🔥 https://t.co/EMOPTzYEFx pic.twitter.com/mqr5aKA5cC — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) December 8, 2020 × Last time Ronaldo and Messi met on the pitch was back in 2018. The Portuguese superstar took to Twitter after the match to share his delight in playing at the Camp Nou again and "against one of the best teams I ever faced." "Always great to return to Spain and to Catalunya, always hard to play in Camp Nou against one of the best teams I ever faced. "Today we were a team of Champions [sic]! A true, strong and united family! Playing like this, we have nothing to fear until the end of the season... Let's go!"

'We kept our word': Juventus bring back Twitter banter after Messi vs Ronaldo battle

<p>Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele has been ruled out of Tuesday`s Champions League home game against Juventus due to a hamstring injury, the La Liga club said on Sunday.<br />
<br />
Barcelona did not indicate how long the France international, who came on as a substitute in Saturday`s 2-1 defeat in Cadiz, would be sidelined.<br />
<br />
"Tests on Sunday morning, Dec. 6, have shown that first-team player Ousmane Dembele has a hamstring elongation," Barcelona said in a statement.<br />
<br />
"He will therefore not be considered for selection and the evolution of the injury will determine his availability."<br />
<br />
The 23-year-old, who missed most of the 2019-20 campaign with a hamstring problem, has scored four goals in 12 appearances for Barcelona this season, including three in the Champions League.<br />
<br />
Ronald Koeman`s side, who have already qualified for the knockout stages, lead Group G with 15 points and will finish top if they avoid defeat against Juventus.</p>


Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele has been ruled out of Tuesday`s Champions League home game against Juventus due to a hamstring injury, the La Liga club said on Sunday.

Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele has been ruled out of Tuesday`s Champions League home game against Juventus due to a hamstring injury, the La Liga club said on Sunday. Barcelona did not indicate how long the France international, who came on as a substitute in Saturday`s 2-1 defeat in Cadiz, would be sidelined. "Tests on Sunday morning, Dec. 6, have shown that first-team player Ousmane Dembele has a hamstring elongation," Barcelona said in a statement. "He will therefore not be considered for selection and the evolution of the injury will determine his availability." The 23-year-old, who missed most of the 2019-20 campaign with a hamstring problem, has scored four goals in 12 appearances for Barcelona this season, including three in the Champions League. Ronald Koeman`s side, who have already qualified for the knockout stages, lead Group G with 15 points and will finish top if they avoid defeat against Juventus.

Barcelona's Ousmane Dembele injures hamstring again

<p>Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman on Friday expressed his annoyance with interim&nbsp;president Carles Tusquets who on Thursday said that Barca should have sold Lionel Messi in the summer transfer window given the dire financial situation of the club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The comments from outside do not interest me and those from inside the club do not help us to have the tranquillity to do our job, which is to win the games," Koeman said at a press conference ahead of Saturday's Liga game against Cadiz.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We cannot control the statements from outside, but those from inside the club, I believe that it is different," he said.</p>

<p>Tusquets of Thursday said that "economically speaking, I would have sold Messi in the summer. Economically speaking, it would have been desirable".</p>

<p>Messi wanted to leave Barcelona in the summer transfer window after submitting an official request.</p>

<p>However, he backed down saying he doesn’t want to hurt Barcelona and the fans. He will be allowed to leave for free in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/24-billion-tokyo-olympics-to-cost-whopping-sum-over-postponed-games-347454" hreflang="en">$2.4 billion! Tokyo Olympics to cost whopping sum over postponed Games</a></strong></p>

<p>Koeman said he considered Tusquets' statements "a personal opinion and I respect any opinion, but Leo has this season with Barca and he will decide his future. Hopefully it will be here". &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We know Leo's situation and he is the one who must decide his future.</p>

<p>"I don't know any more about figures, it's not my job. My job is to prepare the team, play well and win," said Koeman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week, PSG star Neymar said he would like to have a reunion with Messi after leaving the Catalan club for a world record deal in 2017.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-win-on-fans-return-to-top-level-football-in-england-347421" hreflang="en">Arsenal win on fans' return to top level football in England</a></strong></p>

<p>"What I want most is to have fun with him on the pitch again," Neymar told ESPN. "I want to play with him for sure. Next year we have to do it."</p>

<p>However, Tusquets has ruled out buying back Neymar. PSG are one of the candidates to sign Messi from Camp Nou but Manchester City remain favourites to sign the Argentine.</p>

<p>Messi and Neymar played together for Barca and when asked whether he would like to have the duo in the club again, Koeman said:</p>

<p>"I don't like to talk about the individual but as a club, as a coach, as a Barcelona fan, you always want to have the best players in the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tusquets also warned about Barcelona’s finances, which have been stretched by the lack of spectators due to COVID-19 pandemic. Barcelona players will not be paid in January.&nbsp;<br />
Koeman said, "the players and I as a coach have reached an agreement with the club".&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman on Friday expressed his annoyance with interim president Carles Tusquets who on Thursday said that Barca should have sold Lionel Messi in the summer transfer window given the dire financial situation of the club.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman on Friday expressed his annoyance with interim president Carles Tusquets who on Thursday said that Barca should have sold Lionel Messi in the summer transfer window given the dire financial situation of the club. "The comments from outside do not interest me and those from inside the club do not help us to have the tranquillity to do our job, which is to win the games," Koeman said at a press conference ahead of Saturday's Liga game against Cadiz. "We cannot control the statements from outside, but those from inside the club, I believe that it is different," he said. Tusquets of Thursday said that "economically speaking, I would have sold Messi in the summer. Economically speaking, it would have been desirable". Messi wanted to leave Barcelona in the summer transfer window after submitting an official request. However, he backed down saying he doesn’t want to hurt Barcelona and the fans. He will be allowed to leave for free in 2021. ALSO READ: $2.4 billion! Tokyo Olympics to cost whopping sum over postponed Games Koeman said he considered Tusquets' statements "a personal opinion and I respect any opinion, but Leo has this season with Barca and he will decide his future. Hopefully it will be here". "We know Leo's situation and he is the one who must decide his future. "I don't know any more about figures, it's not my job. My job is to prepare the team, play well and win," said Koeman. Earlier this week, PSG star Neymar said he would like to have a reunion with Messi after leaving the Catalan club for a world record deal in 2017. ALSO READ: Arsenal win on fans' return to top level football in England "What I want most is to have fun with him on the pitch again," Neymar told ESPN. "I want to play with him for sure. Next year we have to do it." However, Tusquets has ruled out buying back Neymar. PSG are one of the candidates to sign Messi from Camp Nou but Manchester City remain favourites to sign the Argentine. Messi and Neymar played together for Barca and when asked whether he would like to have the duo in the club again, Koeman said: "I don't like to talk about the individual but as a club, as a coach, as a Barcelona fan, you always want to have the best players in the world." Tusquets also warned about Barcelona’s finances, which have been stretched by the lack of spectators due to COVID-19 pandemic. Barcelona players will not be paid in January. Koeman said, "the players and I as a coach have reached an agreement with the club".

'We know Leo's situation': Ronald Koeman irked by Lionel Messi and money talk at Barcelona

<p>Barcelona's interim president Carlos Tusquets believes that the club should have taken advantage of Messi's situation and should have sold him in the transfer window back in summers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the summer transfer window, Lionel Messi was linked to English giants Manchester City after sending fax asking to leave the club after a disappointing loss to Bayern Munich. He later said the decision was due to being disillusioned with the direction the now-former board had taken the club.</p>

<p>Josep Maria Bartomeu, the club president at that time, went on to resign in October rather than face a vote of no confidence, with Tusquets taking temporary charge until January's elections.</p>

<p>"Economically speaking, I would've sold Messi in the summer window," Tusquets told RAC1 radio station.</p>

<p>"Both in terms of what you save on the wage bill as well as the money you make, it would've been desirable. But this is something the coaching staff have to consent to and that's not my place.</p>

<p>"La Liga are setting salary limits at the moment and this would've helped on that front."</p>

<p>Messi's contract is set to run out in June and the player is being linked to many clubs. His former teammate and friend Neymar expressed his desire to play with the star again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What I want most of all is to play with Messi again, to be able to enjoy him once again on the pitch," he said after his club PSG's 3-1 Champions League win against Manchester United.</p>

<p>"I want to play with him next year, for sure. We have to do it next season."</p>

<p>Tusquets conceded that scenario was unlikely to transpire at the Nou Camp, where the purse strings have been tightened following the COVID-19 crisis.</p>

<p>"If he (Neymar) became available on a free transfer then maybe we could think about signing him," he said.</p>

<p>"Without making sales, there's no money for new signings unless the new president has incredibly deep pockets."</p>


Barcelona's interim president Carlos Tusquets believes that the club should have taken advantage of Messi's situation and should have sold him in the transfer window back in summers.

Barcelona's interim president Carlos Tusquets believes that the club should have taken advantage of Messi's situation and should have sold him in the transfer window back in summers. During the summer transfer window, Lionel Messi was linked to English giants Manchester City after sending fax asking to leave the club after a disappointing loss to Bayern Munich. He later said the decision was due to being disillusioned with the direction the now-former board had taken the club. Josep Maria Bartomeu, the club president at that time, went on to resign in October rather than face a vote of no confidence, with Tusquets taking temporary charge until January's elections. "Economically speaking, I would've sold Messi in the summer window," Tusquets told RAC1 radio station. "Both in terms of what you save on the wage bill as well as the money you make, it would've been desirable. But this is something the coaching staff have to consent to and that's not my place. "La Liga are setting salary limits at the moment and this would've helped on that front." Messi's contract is set to run out in June and the player is being linked to many clubs. His former teammate and friend Neymar expressed his desire to play with the star again. "What I want most of all is to play with Messi again, to be able to enjoy him once again on the pitch," he said after his club PSG's 3-1 Champions League win against Manchester United. "I want to play with him next year, for sure. We have to do it next season." Tusquets conceded that scenario was unlikely to transpire at the Nou Camp, where the purse strings have been tightened following the COVID-19 crisis. "If he (Neymar) became available on a free transfer then maybe we could think about signing him," he said. "Without making sales, there's no money for new signings unless the new president has incredibly deep pockets."

'I would've sold Messi in the summer window': Barcelona's interim president

<p>Barcelona star Lionel Messi was fined 600 euros ($720) for taking his jersey off to pay his tribute to former Argentine legend Diego Maradona who passed away last week due to heart attack, as per Spain's football federation said on Wednesday. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messis-newells-old-boys-shirt-tribute-to-diego-maradona-wins-hearts-346521">Lionel Messi's Newell's Old Boys shirt tribute to Diego Maradona wins hearts</a></p>

<p>Lionel Messi was fined for his actions by the federation after the Argentine scored in Barcelona's 4-0 win over Osasuna in La Liga on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi struck a Golazo from outside of the box to score the fourth goal for Barcelona. After which he took off his jersey to reveal a Newell’s Old Boys jersey Messi spent his formative years at Newell’s Old Boys, a team Maradona represented towards the end of his career.</p>

<p>Messi looked emotional during the minute’s applause for Maradona, who passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Interestingly, this was his first open play goal this season as Messi took off his Barcelona jersey to reveal the same of Newell’s Old Boys with No. 10 on the back in tribute to Maradona. The six-time Ballon d’Or winner pointed to the sky while displaying the Newell’s kit as a show of emotion for Maradona. As per the rules, Messi was shown a yellow card for taking off his Barcelona jersey.</p>

<p>"We lost Maradona, a global idol, we all miss him," Coutinho said. "We didn't know what Messi had prepared to honour Maradona," added Griezmann. "It was a beautiful surprise."</p>

<p>Newell's responded through their English Twitter account, saying: "It's all about number 10. The best player in the world and his tribute to #D10S."</p>

<p>However, the Barcelona star also received a yellow card for doing so because taking off your jersey is a violation according to the FIFA rule book.&nbsp;</p>


Barcelona star Lionel Messi was fined 600 euros ($720) for taking his jersey off to pay his tribute to former Argentine legend Diego Maradona who passed away last week due to heart attack, as per Spain's football federation said on Wednesday.

Barcelona star Lionel Messi was fined 600 euros ($720) for taking his jersey off to pay his tribute to former Argentine legend Diego Maradona who passed away last week due to heart attack, as per Spain's football federation said on Wednesday. Also read: Lionel Messi's Newell's Old Boys shirt tribute to Diego Maradona wins hearts Lionel Messi was fined for his actions by the federation after the Argentine scored in Barcelona's 4-0 win over Osasuna in La Liga on Sunday. Messi struck a Golazo from outside of the box to score the fourth goal for Barcelona. After which he took off his jersey to reveal a Newell’s Old Boys jersey Messi spent his formative years at Newell’s Old Boys, a team Maradona represented towards the end of his career. Messi looked emotional during the minute’s applause for Maradona, who passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest on Wednesday. Interestingly, this was his first open play goal this season as Messi took off his Barcelona jersey to reveal the same of Newell’s Old Boys with No. 10 on the back in tribute to Maradona. The six-time Ballon d’Or winner pointed to the sky while displaying the Newell’s kit as a show of emotion for Maradona. As per the rules, Messi was shown a yellow card for taking off his Barcelona jersey. "We lost Maradona, a global idol, we all miss him," Coutinho said. "We didn't know what Messi had prepared to honour Maradona," added Griezmann. "It was a beautiful surprise." Newell's responded through their English Twitter account, saying: "It's all about number 10. The best player in the world and his tribute to #D10S." However, the Barcelona star also received a yellow card for doing so because taking off your jersey is a violation according to the FIFA rule book.

Barcelona star Lionel Messi fined 600 euros for paying tribute to Maradona

<p>Lionel Messi on Sunday paid an emotional tribute to Diego Maradona by revealing a Newell’s Old Boys jersey after scoring a mirror-image goal from Maradona’s days at the Argentine club. Messi spent his formative years at Newell’s Old Boys, a team Maradona represented towards the end of his career.</p>

<p>Messi looked emotional during the minute’s applause for Maradona, who passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Barcelona looked inspired in their 4-0 win over Osasuna with Messi finding his name in the scoresheet after 73 minutes. After being found on the edge of the box by Francisco Trincao, Messi made himself space before unleashing a top-corner rocket.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/diego-maradona-unabashed-and-outspoken-most-famous-quotes-by-argentine-legend-345634" hreflang="en">Diego Maradona, unabashed and outspoken: Most famous quotes by Argentine legend</a></strong></p>

<p>Interestingly, this was his first open play goal this season as Messi took off his Barcelona jersey to reveal the same of Newell’s Old Boys with No. 10 on the back in tribute to Maradona. The six-time Ballon d’Or winner pointed to the sky while displaying the Newell’s kit as a show of emotion for Maradona. As per the rules, Messi was shown yellow card for taking off his Barcelona jersey.</p>

<p>Both Philippe Coutinho and Antoine Griezmann said they were not aware of Messi’s plans of a tribute on a moving day at Camp Nou, where Maradona played from 1982 to 1984.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We lost Maradona, a global idol, we all miss him," Coutinho said. "We didn't know what Messi had prepared to honour Maradona," added Griezmann. "It was a beautiful surprise."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lionel Messi with an awesome Maradona tribute after scoring an incredible goal...<a href="https://t.co/mTo7b9u1KY">pic.twitter.com/mTo7b9u1KY</a></p>
— Rex Chapman🏇🏼 (@RexChapman) <a href="https://twitter.com/RexChapman/status/1333071255705161729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Newell's responded through their English Twitter account, saying: "It's all about number 10. The best player in the world and his tribute to #D10S."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ciao-diego-argentina-and-napoli-fans-mourn-maradonas-death-345538" hreflang="en">'Ciao Diego': Argentina and Napoli fans mourn Maradona's death</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's all about number 🔟.<br />
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The best player in the world and his tribute to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/D10S?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#D10S</a> ❤️🖤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DiegoEterno?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DiegoEterno</a> ♾ <a href="https://t.co/JZhkZgX9jx">pic.twitter.com/JZhkZgX9jx</a></p>
— Newell's Old Boys (@CANOBoficial_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/CANOBoficial_en/status/1333062242535960579?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Messi's tribute to Maradona wins hearts:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Messi with an awesome Maradona tribute after scoring an incredible goal <a href="https://t.co/AEvYfHzKqx">pic.twitter.com/AEvYfHzKqx</a></p>
— Icculus The Brave (@FirenzeMike) <a href="https://twitter.com/FirenzeMike/status/1333061158610284545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Messi’s goal today where he reveals Maradona’s newell’s shirt vs Maradona’s debut goal for Newell’s, I’m absolutely speechless....<a href="https://t.co/esRdjxKn1C">pic.twitter.com/esRdjxKn1C</a></p>
— Haz (@pubIad) <a href="https://twitter.com/pubIad/status/1333106600324853760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Are you telling me that Messi scored the same goal and with the same shirt as Maradona? Insane 🤯🇦🇷 <a href="https://t.co/v33DR6NUuP">pic.twitter.com/v33DR6NUuP</a></p>
— River Plate News (@lnfoCARP) <a href="https://twitter.com/lnfoCARP/status/1333125233532952577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One legend pays tribute to another legend.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maradona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maradona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> ❤ <a href="https://t.co/4twx7HDQGK">pic.twitter.com/4twx7HDQGK</a></p>
— wazeermurtaza399 (@balti_northboy) <a href="https://twitter.com/balti_northboy/status/1333426876463902722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1993 ⏩ 2020<br />
<br />
27 years later, Lionel Messi paid tribute to Diego Maradona in the only way he knew how 🖤❤️ <a href="https://t.co/1lXqDfn35T">pic.twitter.com/1lXqDfn35T</a></p>
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/btsportfootball/status/1333425804840144898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lahoz gave only one card in the Barça vs Osasuna game (to Messi for his Maradona tribute). That's the fewest number of cards Lahoz gave in a Liga game since 2018! <a href="https://t.co/bozlReaYVF">pic.twitter.com/bozlReaYVF</a></p>
— adil (@Barca19stats) <a href="https://twitter.com/Barca19stats/status/1333419670385340416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi and Maradona shared the pitch together in 2005 – in an exhibition match featuring the greats of Argentine football. Messi was 18 and Maradona was 45.</p>

<p>Maradona briefly coached Messi at international level when he was in charge of the Argentine team from 2008 to 2010.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Even if I played for a million years, I’d never come close to Maradona,” Messi said. "Not that I’d want to anyway. He’s the greatest there’s ever been.”</p>


Lionel Messi on Sunday paid an emotional tribute to Diego Maradona by revealing a Newell’s Old Boys jersey after scoring a mirror-image goal from Maradona’s days at the Argentine club.

Lionel Messi on Sunday paid an emotional tribute to Diego Maradona by revealing a Newell’s Old Boys jersey after scoring a mirror-image goal from Maradona’s days at the Argentine club. Messi spent his formative years at Newell’s Old Boys, a team Maradona represented towards the end of his career. Messi looked emotional during the minute’s applause for Maradona, who passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest on Wednesday. Barcelona looked inspired in their 4-0 win over Osasuna with Messi finding his name in the scoresheet after 73 minutes. After being found on the edge of the box by Francisco Trincao, Messi made himself space before unleashing a top-corner rocket. IN PICS | Diego Maradona, unabashed and outspoken: Most famous quotes by Argentine legend Interestingly, this was his first open play goal this season as Messi took off his Barcelona jersey to reveal the same of Newell’s Old Boys with No. 10 on the back in tribute to Maradona. The six-time Ballon d’Or winner pointed to the sky while displaying the Newell’s kit as a show of emotion for Maradona. As per the rules, Messi was shown yellow card for taking off his Barcelona jersey. Both Philippe Coutinho and Antoine Griezmann said they were not aware of Messi’s plans of a tribute on a moving day at Camp Nou, where Maradona played from 1982 to 1984. "We lost Maradona, a global idol, we all miss him," Coutinho said. "We didn't know what Messi had prepared to honour Maradona," added Griezmann. "It was a beautiful surprise." Lionel Messi with an awesome Maradona tribute after scoring an incredible goal...pic.twitter.com/mTo7b9u1KY — Rex Chapman🏇🏼 (@RexChapman) November 29, 2020 × Newell's responded through their English Twitter account, saying: "It's all about number 10. The best player in the world and his tribute to #D10S." ALSO READ: 'Ciao Diego': Argentina and Napoli fans mourn Maradona's death It's all about number 🔟. The best player in the world and his tribute to #D10S ❤️🖤#DiegoEterno ♾ pic.twitter.com/JZhkZgX9jx — Newell's Old Boys (@CANOBoficial_en) November 29, 2020 × Messi's tribute to Maradona wins hearts: Messi with an awesome Maradona tribute after scoring an incredible goal pic.twitter.com/AEvYfHzKqx — Icculus The Brave (@FirenzeMike) November 29, 2020 × Messi’s goal today where he reveals Maradona’s newell’s shirt vs Maradona’s debut goal for Newell’s, I’m absolutely speechless....pic.twitter.com/esRdjxKn1C — Haz (@pubIad) November 29, 2020 × Are you telling me that Messi scored the same goal and with the same shirt as Maradona? Insane 🤯🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/v33DR6NUuP — River Plate News (@lnfoCARP) November 29, 2020 × One legend pays tribute to another legend.#Maradona #Messi ❤ pic.twitter.com/4twx7HDQGK — wazeermurtaza399 (@balti_northboy) November 30, 2020 × 1993 ⏩ 2020 27 years later, Lionel Messi paid tribute to Diego Maradona in the only way he knew how 🖤❤️ pic.twitter.com/1lXqDfn35T — Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) November 30, 2020 × Lahoz gave only one card in the Barça vs Osasuna game (to Messi for his Maradona tribute). That's the fewest number of cards Lahoz gave in a Liga game since 2018! pic.twitter.com/bozlReaYVF — adil (@Barca19stats) November 30, 2020 × Messi and Maradona shared the pitch together in 2005 – in an exhibition match featuring the greats of Argentine football. Messi was 18 and Maradona was 45. Maradona briefly coached Messi at international level when he was in charge of the Argentine team from 2008 to 2010. “Even if I played for a million years, I’d never come close to Maradona,” Messi said. "Not that I’d want to anyway. He’s the greatest there’s ever been.”

Lionel Messi's Newell's Old Boys shirt tribute to Diego Maradona wins hearts

November 29 in history: Foundation of FC Barcelona, first phonograph and more

<p>Juventus, Chelsea and Sevilla all claimed last-gasp wins as they qualified for the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday, while Martin Braithwaite grabbed a double in Barcelona's 4-0 victory at Dynamo Kiev as they also secured a place in the knockout rounds.</p>

<p>They are the first teams to make it out of the group stage, doing so with two games to spare, on a night which saw Erling Braut Haaland, Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes all get among the goals.</p>

<p>There was no Lionel Messi for Barcelona, with the Argentine rested for the trip to Ukraine, but Ronald Koeman's side got the job done to make it four wins from four in Group G.</p>

<p>All the goals came in the second half, with Sergino Dest opening the scoring before Danish striker Braithwaite added another and then converted a penalty to make it 3-0.</p>

<p>On as a substitute, Antoine Griezmann wrapped up the win on the night young centre-back Oscar Mingueza, Brazilian midfielder Matheus Fernandes and teenage American winger Konrad de la Fuente were all blooded in the first team.</p>

<p>"We've achieved our objective," said Koeman. "We looked hungry and scored four goals. Important players were able to rest and the youngsters deserved their minutes."&nbsp;</p>

<h2>- Morata, Giroud strike late -</h2>

<p>Juventus joined Barcelona in qualifying from Group G but the Italian champions needed a stoppage-time header by substitute Alvaro Morata to beat Ferencvaros 2-1 in Turin and seal their progress.</p>

<p>Albanian international Myrto Uzuni put the Hungarians ahead but Ronaldo drilled in the equaliser before half-time, meaning he has scored in 15 consecutive Champions League seasons.</p>

<p>Chelsea are through from Group E after edging Rennes 2-1 in France, with Olivier Giroud coming off the bench to head in an injury-time winner. Serhou Guirassy had cancelled out Callum Hudson-Odoi's breakaway opener.</p>

<p>Last season's Europa League winners Sevilla will not get to defend their trophy as they advanced to the last 16 of Europe's elite club competition and did so with a 2-1 win over Krasnodar in Russia, in a rare game played before a sizeable crowd.</p>

<p>Ivan Rakitic's drilled strike put the Spaniards in front only for the Brazilian Wanderson to equalise, but Munir El Haddadi won it for Sevilla five minutes into added time.</p>

<p>Sevilla and Chelsea are level on 10 points but Frank Lampard's side go to Spain next week, when the winner will secure top spot.</p>

<p>Manchester United are in pole position in Group H after a first-half Fernandes brace set them on their way to a 4-1 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir that made up for a 2-1 defeat in Turkey last time out.</p>

<p>The opener by Fernandes was a thunderous strike from outside the box, while the second was a tap-in after a horrible error by Mert Gunok in the away goal.</p>

<p>Marcus Rashford added a penalty, but there was a fightback from the away side, with Deniz Turuc's free-kick crossing the line before David de Gea could claw it away.</p>

<p>Edin Visca crashed a shot off the bar, but Daniel James made sure of the victory on the counter-attack.</p>

<p>"It's a Champions League night at Old Trafford, you'd expect them to enjoy themselves," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said of his team. "We scored some very nice goals, I'm pleased."</p>

<h2>- Haaland's frightening record -</h2>

<p>Solskjaer's side are three points clear of both Paris Saint-Germain and RB Leipzig, after an early Neymar penalty gave the French side a 1-0 win over their German visitors.</p>

<p>PSG go to Old Trafford next week.</p>

<p>Borussia Dortmund need just one more point to qualify from Group F following a 3-0 win over Club Brugge as the prolific Haaland netted twice either side of a Jadon Sancho free-kick in Germany.</p>

<p>Haaland has 16 goals for the season, and has now scored 16 Champions League goals in just 12 appearances -- Messi had two goals and Ronaldo none after the same number of appearances.</p>

<p>"Erling is a fantastic player. He works hard on and off the pitch and he deserves everything that's coming his way," said Sancho.</p>

<p>In the group's other game Ciro Immobile was on target twice, including from a penalty, as Lazio beat Zenit Saint-Petersburg 3-1 in Rome, a result which eliminated the Russians. Marco Parolo also netted for Lazio, with Artem Dzyuba scoring for Zenit.</p>


Juventus, Chelsea and Sevilla all claimed last-gasp wins as they qualified for the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday, while Martin Braithwaite grabbed a double in Barcelona's 4-0 victory at Dynamo Kiev as they also secured a place in the knockout rounds.

Juventus, Chelsea and Sevilla all claimed last-gasp wins as they qualified for the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday, while Martin Braithwaite grabbed a double in Barcelona's 4-0 victory at Dynamo Kiev as they also secured a place in the knockout rounds. They are the first teams to make it out of the group stage, doing so with two games to spare, on a night which saw Erling Braut Haaland, Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes all get among the goals. There was no Lionel Messi for Barcelona, with the Argentine rested for the trip to Ukraine, but Ronald Koeman's side got the job done to make it four wins from four in Group G. All the goals came in the second half, with Sergino Dest opening the scoring before Danish striker Braithwaite added another and then converted a penalty to make it 3-0. On as a substitute, Antoine Griezmann wrapped up the win on the night young centre-back Oscar Mingueza, Brazilian midfielder Matheus Fernandes and teenage American winger Konrad de la Fuente were all blooded in the first team. "We've achieved our objective," said Koeman. "We looked hungry and scored four goals. Important players were able to rest and the youngsters deserved their minutes." - Morata, Giroud strike late - Juventus joined Barcelona in qualifying from Group G but the Italian champions needed a stoppage-time header by substitute Alvaro Morata to beat Ferencvaros 2-1 in Turin and seal their progress. Albanian international Myrto Uzuni put the Hungarians ahead but Ronaldo drilled in the equaliser before half-time, meaning he has scored in 15 consecutive Champions League seasons. Chelsea are through from Group E after edging Rennes 2-1 in France, with Olivier Giroud coming off the bench to head in an injury-time winner. Serhou Guirassy had cancelled out Callum Hudson-Odoi's breakaway opener. Last season's Europa League winners Sevilla will not get to defend their trophy as they advanced to the last 16 of Europe's elite club competition and did so with a 2-1 win over Krasnodar in Russia, in a rare game played before a sizeable crowd. Ivan Rakitic's drilled strike put the Spaniards in front only for the Brazilian Wanderson to equalise, but Munir El Haddadi won it for Sevilla five minutes into added time. Sevilla and Chelsea are level on 10 points but Frank Lampard's side go to Spain next week, when the winner will secure top spot. Manchester United are in pole position in Group H after a first-half Fernandes brace set them on their way to a 4-1 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir that made up for a 2-1 defeat in Turkey last time out. The opener by Fernandes was a thunderous strike from outside the box, while the second was a tap-in after a horrible error by Mert Gunok in the away goal. Marcus Rashford added a penalty, but there was a fightback from the away side, with Deniz Turuc's free-kick crossing the line before David de Gea could claw it away. Edin Visca crashed a shot off the bar, but Daniel James made sure of the victory on the counter-attack. "It's a Champions League night at Old Trafford, you'd expect them to enjoy themselves," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said of his team. "We scored some very nice goals, I'm pleased." - Haaland's frightening record - Solskjaer's side are three points clear of both Paris Saint-Germain and RB Leipzig, after an early Neymar penalty gave the French side a 1-0 win over their German visitors. PSG go to Old Trafford next week. Borussia Dortmund need just one more point to qualify from Group F following a 3-0 win over Club Brugge as the prolific Haaland netted twice either side of a Jadon Sancho free-kick in Germany. Haaland has 16 goals for the season, and has now scored 16 Champions League goals in just 12 appearances -- Messi had two goals and Ronaldo none after the same number of appearances. "Erling is a fantastic player. He works hard on and off the pitch and he deserves everything that's coming his way," said Sancho. In the group's other game Ciro Immobile was on target twice, including from a penalty, as Lazio beat Zenit Saint-Petersburg 3-1 in Rome, a result which eliminated the Russians. Marco Parolo also netted for Lazio, with Artem Dzyuba scoring for Zenit.

Barcelona, Juventus join Chelsea and Sevilla in Champions League last 16

<p>A rift between Antoine Griezmann and Lionel Messi has been making some rounds on social media. However, the French forward has denied any rift with club legend Messi. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barca-drift-messi-disillusioned-as-koeman-renovation-yet-to-convince-344788" hreflang="en">Barca drift, Messi disillusioned as Koeman renovation yet to convince</a></p>

<p>Griezemann did reveal that Messi was unhappy when the French initially decided to reject a move to Barcelona. But he insisted that both players have a strong relationship together now he is at the Nou Camp.</p>

<p>While speaking to Universo Valdano, Griezmann said: "When I signed for the club I asked for forgiveness for delaying the move and saying I wouldn't join Barcelona."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I told Lionel Messi that I would give everything on the pitch for the club. I spoke with Leo when I arrived and he told me that when I turned down the first chance to go, he was screwed because he had asked for it publicly, but he told me he was with me and I notice it every day."</p>

<p>The French striker also lashed out on his uncle and former agent Eric Olhats for his statements against Lionel Messi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He (Olhats) was very important in my life but I don't have a relationship with him anymore,' Griezmann said. 'I stopped having any relationship with him since the day I got married. I invited him to the wedding day, and he didn't come. That's why I stopped having a relationship with him.</p>

<p>"My uncle doesn't know how football works. And in the end, the journalist ended up getting the statement out of him. I told Leo that I never speak to them I don't even have my uncle's phone number.</p>

<p>"My parents don't talk to Eric either, so who is going to talk to him? He can do a lot of damage, and create problems in the dressing room."</p>


A rift between Antoine Griezmann and Lionel Messi has been making some rounds on social media. However, the French forward has denied any rift with club legend Messi.

A rift between Antoine Griezmann and Lionel Messi has been making some rounds on social media. However, the French forward has denied any rift with club legend Messi. Also read: Barca drift, Messi disillusioned as Koeman renovation yet to convince Griezemann did reveal that Messi was unhappy when the French initially decided to reject a move to Barcelona. But he insisted that both players have a strong relationship together now he is at the Nou Camp. While speaking to Universo Valdano, Griezmann said: "When I signed for the club I asked for forgiveness for delaying the move and saying I wouldn't join Barcelona." "I told Lionel Messi that I would give everything on the pitch for the club. I spoke with Leo when I arrived and he told me that when I turned down the first chance to go, he was screwed because he had asked for it publicly, but he told me he was with me and I notice it every day." The French striker also lashed out on his uncle and former agent Eric Olhats for his statements against Lionel Messi. "He (Olhats) was very important in my life but I don't have a relationship with him anymore,' Griezmann said. 'I stopped having any relationship with him since the day I got married. I invited him to the wedding day, and he didn't come. That's why I stopped having a relationship with him. "My uncle doesn't know how football works. And in the end, the journalist ended up getting the statement out of him. I told Leo that I never speak to them I don't even have my uncle's phone number. "My parents don't talk to Eric either, so who is going to talk to him? He can do a lot of damage, and create problems in the dressing room."

'He was screwed': Antoine Griezmann reveals details of his rift with Lionel Messi

<p>Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said Monday that Lionel Messi and Frenkie de Jong will not feature against Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League this midweek, instead being given a rest.</p>

<p>Barca travel to Ukraine on top of Group G with a perfect nine points after three games, three points ahead of second-placed Juventus, but they are a lowly 12th in La Liga after losing 1-0 to Atletico Madrid on Saturday.</p>

<p>"We've decided not to take Leo or Frenkie because our situation in the Champions League is quite comfortable," Koeman told reporters ahead of Tuesday's game.</p>

<p>Messi, 33, has played every Barca match so far this season and also played the full 90 minutes for Argentina four times over October and November.</p>

<p>Midfielder De Jong, who is 10 years Messi's junior, has also played every match for the Catalan giants as well as five international fixtures for the Netherlands in the same period.</p>

<p>"The players need a break and we think it's time for them to rest ... Both have played almost every minute and come from playing with their national teams," Koeman added.</p>

<p>"Sometimes, you have to protect your players because the calendar is incredible."</p>

<p>Injuries to several key players including Ansu Fati, Sergio Busquets and Gerard Pique have forced Koeman to rotate.</p>

<p>Antoine Griezmann and promising teen Pedri are expected to lead the attack while Clement Lenglet will lead the defence in the absence of both Pique, who picked up a knee injury on Saturday, and Samuel Umtiti.</p>


Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said Monday that Lionel Messi and Frenkie de Jong will not feature against Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League this midweek, instead being given a rest.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said Monday that Lionel Messi and Frenkie de Jong will not feature against Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League this midweek, instead being given a rest. Barca travel to Ukraine on top of Group G with a perfect nine points after three games, three points ahead of second-placed Juventus, but they are a lowly 12th in La Liga after losing 1-0 to Atletico Madrid on Saturday. "We've decided not to take Leo or Frenkie because our situation in the Champions League is quite comfortable," Koeman told reporters ahead of Tuesday's game. Messi, 33, has played every Barca match so far this season and also played the full 90 minutes for Argentina four times over October and November. Midfielder De Jong, who is 10 years Messi's junior, has also played every match for the Catalan giants as well as five international fixtures for the Netherlands in the same period. "The players need a break and we think it's time for them to rest ... Both have played almost every minute and come from playing with their national teams," Koeman added. "Sometimes, you have to protect your players because the calendar is incredible." Injuries to several key players including Ansu Fati, Sergio Busquets and Gerard Pique have forced Koeman to rotate. Antoine Griezmann and promising teen Pedri are expected to lead the attack while Clement Lenglet will lead the defence in the absence of both Pique, who picked up a knee injury on Saturday, and Samuel Umtiti.

Barcelona coach Koeman rests Messi, De Jong for Dynamo Kiev clash

<p>Lionel Messi was almost unrecognisable and so were Barcelona as a rare defeat by Atletico Madrid on Saturday cast further doubt over the direction of the Ronald Koeman project.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Atletico had not beaten Barca in the league since 2010, their 1-0 win at the Wanda Metropolitano a timely affirmation that they are contenders and arguably now favourites to win La Liga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For Barca sitting 12th, albeit with a game or two in hand over some of those above them, the immediate blow of a third league defeat in eight games was compounded by a knee ligament injury to Gerard Pique, which leaves Koeman with only one fit central defender.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But perhaps more concerning is the sense that Koeman's Barcelona appear already to be stalling, devoid of either a clear identity or renewed enthusiasm, both of which might have been expected to follow the appointment of a new coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Like any coach, I am responsible," said Koeman on Saturday. "We have to improve the results. We have to improve defensively and in attack and after that I can't do anything more."&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was almost a year ago that Ernesto Valverde was sacked mid-season with the team top of the table, both a jolt reaction to stodgy performances and a delayed one after historical Champions League failure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His replacement Quique Setien arrived with a purist approach believed to be consistent with Barca's DNA and for a while there were signs of it, only for results to dive and another split become unavoidable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Koeman's first four months have brought neither the pragmatism to grind out results nor the imagination to impose a style that dominates opponents or endures through adversity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Atletico absorbed a handful of chances late on but the onslaught never came and as Barca chased an equaliser, they grew more desperate, the lack of a plan - or at least their belief in one - becoming more and more apparent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The result feels like a season already set to be consigned to a period of transition, even if Barcelona's starting line-up against Atletico had only two new players and just three aged younger than 25.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>- Koeman in the hot seat -</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Koeman may be renovating but what team in the world would not find space for the likes of Messi, Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele, Frenkie de Jong, Jordi Alba, Pique and Marc-Andre ter Stegen?&nbsp;</p>

<p>There has certainly been a glance to the future, with the emergence of Pedri, who started against Atletico, and Sergino Dest and Francisco Trincao, who came on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There has been a new formation too, a shift to 4-2-3-1, with De Jong as a pivot and Griezmann, and Messi, playing more central.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yet change needs commitment and leadership, with one of Koeman's biggest problems the drift of his captain.</p>

<p>When Messi ran beyond Atletico's defence in the first half onto a pass from Alba, like he has done so many times before, the expectation was he would fire early past Jan Oblak, even from an acute angle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Instead, he hesitated, looking up for a pass inside, before a tame finish rolled straight into the hands of the goalkeeper.</p>

<p>At full-time, Messi was among a number of senior players that could have taken responsibility for the team's post-match media duties but instead it was the 17-year-old Pedri in front of the cameras, just as Dest had spoken after the loss last month to Real Madrid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi's efforts on the pitch cannot be questioned but he also looks increasingly burdened playing for Barcelona, with the enjoyment seemingly gone and the buzz lost ever since his failed attempt to leave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm fed up being the problem with everything that goes on at this club," said the frustrated 33-year-old on Wednesday, when questioned by reporters about his relationship with Griezmann, after a 15-hour flight back from Peru.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Koeman does not inspire Messi, perhaps someone else will given a new club president in January could mean a new coach, either immediately or next summer, when Messi himself could walk away for free.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Every change will bring fresh upheaval. Koeman's transition could be the first of many.&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi was almost unrecognisable and so were Barcelona as a rare defeat by Atletico Madrid on Saturday cast further doubt over the direction of the Ronald Koeman project.

Lionel Messi was almost unrecognisable and so were Barcelona as a rare defeat by Atletico Madrid on Saturday cast further doubt over the direction of the Ronald Koeman project. Atletico had not beaten Barca in the league since 2010, their 1-0 win at the Wanda Metropolitano a timely affirmation that they are contenders and arguably now favourites to win La Liga. For Barca sitting 12th, albeit with a game or two in hand over some of those above them, the immediate blow of a third league defeat in eight games was compounded by a knee ligament injury to Gerard Pique, which leaves Koeman with only one fit central defender. But perhaps more concerning is the sense that Koeman's Barcelona appear already to be stalling, devoid of either a clear identity or renewed enthusiasm, both of which might have been expected to follow the appointment of a new coach. "Like any coach, I am responsible," said Koeman on Saturday. "We have to improve the results. We have to improve defensively and in attack and after that I can't do anything more." It was almost a year ago that Ernesto Valverde was sacked mid-season with the team top of the table, both a jolt reaction to stodgy performances and a delayed one after historical Champions League failure. His replacement Quique Setien arrived with a purist approach believed to be consistent with Barca's DNA and for a while there were signs of it, only for results to dive and another split become unavoidable. But Koeman's first four months have brought neither the pragmatism to grind out results nor the imagination to impose a style that dominates opponents or endures through adversity. Atletico absorbed a handful of chances late on but the onslaught never came and as Barca chased an equaliser, they grew more desperate, the lack of a plan - or at least their belief in one - becoming more and more apparent. The result feels like a season already set to be consigned to a period of transition, even if Barcelona's starting line-up against Atletico had only two new players and just three aged younger than 25. - Koeman in the hot seat - Koeman may be renovating but what team in the world would not find space for the likes of Messi, Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele, Frenkie de Jong, Jordi Alba, Pique and Marc-Andre ter Stegen? There has certainly been a glance to the future, with the emergence of Pedri, who started against Atletico, and Sergino Dest and Francisco Trincao, who came on. There has been a new formation too, a shift to 4-2-3-1, with De Jong as a pivot and Griezmann, and Messi, playing more central. Yet change needs commitment and leadership, with one of Koeman's biggest problems the drift of his captain. When Messi ran beyond Atletico's defence in the first half onto a pass from Alba, like he has done so many times before, the expectation was he would fire early past Jan Oblak, even from an acute angle. Instead, he hesitated, looking up for a pass inside, before a tame finish rolled straight into the hands of the goalkeeper. At full-time, Messi was among a number of senior players that could have taken responsibility for the team's post-match media duties but instead it was the 17-year-old Pedri in front of the cameras, just as Dest had spoken after the loss last month to Real Madrid. Messi's efforts on the pitch cannot be questioned but he also looks increasingly burdened playing for Barcelona, with the enjoyment seemingly gone and the buzz lost ever since his failed attempt to leave. "I'm fed up being the problem with everything that goes on at this club," said the frustrated 33-year-old on Wednesday, when questioned by reporters about his relationship with Griezmann, after a 15-hour flight back from Peru. If Koeman does not inspire Messi, perhaps someone else will given a new club president in January could mean a new coach, either immediately or next summer, when Messi himself could walk away for free. Every change will bring fresh upheaval. Koeman's transition could be the first of many.

Barca drift, Messi disillusioned as Koeman renovation yet to convince

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