Lionel Messi: 'I don't have any kind of relationship with Pep Guardiola now'
Master and pupil go head-to-head when Barcelona meet Bayern Munich
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Lionel Messi has stated that he no longer has "any kind" of relationship with this former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola.
The Spanish coach, now in charge of Bayern Munich, will return to the Nou Camp for the first time since leaving the club in 2012.
Messi developed into the best player in the world under Guardiola's guidance, winning three consecutive Ballon d'Or awards as he scored 211 goals in 219 games under the Spaniard.
But speaking ahead of the game, the 27-year-old admitted that are barely in contact.
"We had a great time when Pep was here. We won a lot of titles and I grew a lot – that was the time when I grew most as a footballer," Messi told the media.
"We had a fantastic relationship when he was here. I have seen him a few times since he left but we don’t have any kind of relationship now.
"Guardiola knows us, he knows us all well. We were lucky enough to win a lot of titles with him. Based on what Guardiola meant to the club in his time as coach, I think he will get a good welcome.
"He gave a lot to the club and he is from here, but I think the fans will support the club and want us to win the game."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments