"It caught me a bit of surprise" - When Lionel Messi commented on Barcelona allegedly paying companies to belittle club legends
Argentine superstar Lionel Messi once pointed out Barcelona's denial of the allegations about paying a third-party company to belittle senior players and presidential candidates on social media. In February 2020, it was alleged that La Blaugrana are using social media firms to criticize key figures to protect the reputation of former president Josep Maria Bartomeu. Messi claimed that the news took him by surprise.
As per ESPN, former president Bartomeu also met with Messi, Gerard Pique, Sergi Roberto, and Sergio Busquets to discuss the situation. However, Messi also stated that the players would wait for the evidence before providing any verdict.
He said (via Mundo Deportivo):
"It caught me a bit of surprise because I wasn't here and I was travelling. The truth is that I find it strange that something like this happens. But they also said there would be evidence. We will have to wait to see if it is true or not. We cannot say much and wait to see what happens with all this. Truthfully, I find it very strange."
At that time, the Argentine superstar did not have a good relationship with former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu. He also criticized former sporting director Eric Abidal for not maintaining transparency within the club.
Later in 2021, the 37-year-old was forced to leave La Blaugrana after the club couldn't offer him a new contract due to financial crisis. He joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a free transfer before moving to Inter Miami last season.
Lionel Messi addresses fans on Barcelona's 125th anniversary
During a recent interview with Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Lionel Messi sat down to address the fans after Barcelona celebrated their 125th anniversary. The Argentine playmaker claimed that he missed playing at Camp Nou.
However, he also said that he hopes to see the fans again.
"I miss you all very much, I hope we can see each other again soon and that you feel proud to be part of the best club in the world," Messi said (via Mundo Deportivo).
In the interview, Messi also insisted he has several unforgettable memories with La Blaugrana. The Argentine ace also wished Barcelona to win the La Liga, UEFA Champions League, and Copa del Rey this season.
Hansi Flick's Barca are currently at the top of the La Liga table with 37 points in 16 matches. Meanwhile, they're third in the UEFA Champions League with 12 points from five matches.