Share

Keep calm on Messi deal, says Barca coach

Barcelona - Barcelona need to avoid a growing sense of hysteria felt by fans, fellow players and media over protracted negotiations to extend superstar striker Lionel Messi's contract, his coach Luis Enrique said on Friday.

With just 18 months left on the 29-year-old Argentine's deal, Enrique insisted there is no need to panic.

"We have to remain calm," Luis Enrique said, suggesting the club would not be rushed or panicked.

"We're not getting involved in that," the coach insisted amid speculation the player may eventually move on.

"The rhythm and the way this is worked out will be dictated by the club and Leo Messi himself."

"I don't know about numbers, I know about football. We all want to enjoy watching Messi here for many more years, nothing else matters for me."

Despite posting a record turnover of €679 million ($719 million) last season, a series of expensive new contracts for the likes of Neymar and Luis Suarez mean Barcelona are close to overstepping the 70 percent limit of turnover spent on salaries imposed by UEFA's financial fair-play laws.

Meanwhile, Enrique hailed Suarez's achievement of reaching 100 goals in 120 Barcelona appearances, a landmark reached in the 3-1 Copa del Rey win over Athletic Bilbao in midweek.

"100 goals in 120 games! My God! Incredible!", said Enrique ahead of Saturday's match against Las Palmas.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE