Barcelona are hugely dependent on Lionel Messi’s form, and everyone around the world is fully aware of it. The Argentinean star is the engine that keeps Barca’s attack running, always eager to step up to take responsibility and lift his team to victory. If the Blaugranas are currently leading La Liga with a comfortable 11 point lead over Atletico Madrid, favourites to overcome Roma in the quarter-finals of the Champions League and only 90 minutes away from conquering the Copa del Rey again, it is all as a result of Messi’s influence.
Unfortunately, Messi’s eagerness to be involved in pretty much every second of football this season has taken a toll in his current fitness. La Pulga was not available to join his Argentina teammates for training on Saturday, opting to stay back in the hotel’s gym instead. Not having played against Italy in Old Trafford on Friday and a serious doubt for the game against Spain in Madrid, it is clear the minor injury keeps bothering the Catalans’ star is perhaps more serious than most believe.
As we discussed in much more depth in the latest episode of The Barcelona Podcast (which you can access here), the Barcelona community are right to be worried about Messi’s fitness as, ultimately, the No.10 is key difference-maker, the most likely hero to unbalance key matches when it truly matters.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Leo!
