Frustrated Koeman take umbrage to Messi questions

Martin Macdonald

• Updated: 23 May 2023 08:47 CDT
• 4 min read

Ronald Koeman has provided a curt response to journalists when asked whether he believes Lionel Messi will leave Barcelona.

The Argentine continues to be linked with a move away from the Camp Nou, after asking to leave in the summer.

The 2019/20 season saw Barcelona win no major trophies for the first time in 12 years, while they were knocked out of the Champions League in embarrassing fashion by Bayern.

• Ancelotti has his say on Ronaldo’s potential return to Real Madrid

After that result, Messi faxed the club asking he be let out of his current contract, citing a clause allowing him to leave for free each season.

Barcelona refused, and insisted his mammoth release clause would have to be paid.

Wanting to avoid a public, sour exit from the club he as been with since the age of 13, Messi agreed to stay for at least one more year.

When it seemed like Messi could leave in the summer, Man City were the most interested suitors, and one of only a few clubs who could afford his wages.

Messi snapshot:

Speculation over that move has increased this week with the news that Pep Guardiola has signed an extended contract with City, leading to rumours of a potential reunion.

For Koeman, though, he is tired of being asked about it.

“No, and I won’t say any more about this,” he said when asked if he thinks Messi will leave.

He was asked again, and replied: “I won’t take any more questions on this.”

The Dutchman hasn’t enjoyed a positive start to life as Barca head coach, as the Blaugrana have won just three of their opening league seven games in 2020/21.