The Argentine star was the focus of attention in the win over Atlético Madrid and after the game he denied recent stories about a possible departure from the club
Leo Messi has been the focus of attention on and off the field. After scoring the third in Barça’s 3-1 win over Atlético Madrid, the striker made it clear in an interview with Barça TV post game programme ‘El Marcador’ that he “has no intention of going anywhere.” He denied rumours that linked him to other teams for next season: “I haven’t asked for anything to stay here because I have never wanted to go anywhere else. I have also heard that I have spoken to Chelsea and [Manchester] City…but it’s all lies.”
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The blaugrana number 10 also denied stories that he asked President Josep Maria Bartomeu to sack coach Luis Enrique: “There have stories that I had bad relationships with Guardiola, Eto’o, Ibrahimovic and Bojan..that I have got rid of people. That is in no way true. I never asked for them to get rid of the coach or anyone else, Juanjo…”
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He continued: “I am tired of hearing things about me. They say that I run the club when I am just another player. I don’t make those decisions, nor have I asked to make them.”
On the victory over Atlético, Messi had this to say: “Lately, since Simeone arrived, they have made it difficult for us. We went out with attitude and we were the better side. Atlético are a tough side to play against. They play at the limit and have great players, if you let them they can create chances very quickly.”
Finally, Messi commented on his chances of claiming a fifth FIFA Ballon d’Or on Monday in Zurich: “Being realistic, I think it will be difficult. We are going to enjoy the gala. Cristiano Ronaldo and Neuer have both had fantastic years. One has won the Cup and the Champions League and scored lots of goals, the other has had a great year winning the World Cup.”