Lionel Messi to miss Barcelona's La Liga opener: Details here
Barcelona's superstar footballer Lionel Messi is all set to miss the opening game of La Liga 2019-20 against Athletic Bilbao on Friday. According to coach Ernesto Valverde, Messi had suffered a calf injury during last week's training and is yet to fully recover, as he missed the two friendlies against Napoli. Messi has not resumed training yet and won't be risked. Here's more.
Valverde does not want to take any risk with Messi
Valverde has stated that when it comes to the fitness level of the players in the club, he wishes to take no risk for unfit players, especially for a player like Messi. While Messi is yet to train and play with the team ahead of La Liga opener, Valverde stated that his recovery process has been going on well.
Messi vows Barca would fight for everything in new season
"I don't regret anything. I can only repeat what I said last season. I believe in this squad, in these players, in the coaching staff. Together, we are going to fight for everything," Messi had quoted to the fans ahead of the upcoming season.
Valverde refrains from speaking on Neymar issue
With reports coming in that Barca and Real Madrid are eying Neymar for his signature, Valverde chose to maintain silence. He was adamant about staying focussed with the players he has in his squad. "I have always kept a line of respect in that way because Neymar belongs to PSG. We will see what happens, but I can't tell anything about it," said Valverde.
Will Nelson Semedo be a part of Neymar swap deal?
Having already spent €250 million this summer, Barca are adamant about not selling further players, especially a swap for Neymar. However, with Nelson Semedo among the possible candidates to be on his way out, Valverde asserted that it all depends on the performance. "Until August 31 everything is open, but we think, and I hope, that Nelson stays with us," added Valverde.
Barca should learn to step up without Messi
As Barca suffered a setback ahead of their La Liga season opener, they should focus on the task ahead rather than pondering over the issue. Meanwhile, the author feels that the club has enough talent to overcome the challenge of Bilbao, even without Messi's services. Also, they should stop relying on Messi and learn to bring up their A-Game without him.
