FC Barcelona is in a special area of tension these days. On the one hand, there is the current sporting situation in which Ronald Koeman’s team falls short of expectations. On the other hand, questions about the future hover above everything. Especially the whereabouts of Lionel Messi.
The superstar has been able to officially negotiate with other clubs since the New Year and theoretically even sign a contract because his contract with Barca expires at the end of the season. Many fans are more concerned with the topic than the question of who will be elected as the new president in three weeks’ time. It is considered likely that Messi will look closely at the election result before discussing an extension with the Catalans. Head coach Koeman gives his most important player all the time in the world.
“Not nervous or worried”
“Like any player whose contract is about to expire, he is free to decide whenever he wants. I have no problem with it if he keeps it open,” said the Dutchman at Barca’s matchday press conference before the game at SD Huesca on Sunday evening. “You have to respect your decision, but you shouldn’t be nervous or worried.” It is clear that the future of possibly the best footballer of all time threatens to overshadow everything else.
“That’s why he’s number one in the world”
Messi, meanwhile, returns to the Barca squad at Huesca after Koeman granted him special leave. The dependency on the six-time world footballer became clear again during the week in the 1-1 draw against SD Eibar. “It’s been like that for many years. I’ve seen games the team wasn’t doing very well and Leo was there to find the solution. That’s why he’s number one in the world,” Koeman said. This season, Messi leads the internal goalscorer list with seven hits in 14 appearances.
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