Messi snubs Setien’s assistant as Barca players clash with coaches
Barcelona star Lionel Messi has been seen appearing to ignore Quique Setien’s assistant Eder Sarabia during a La Liga match.
Barca dropped more points in their battle with Real Madrid at the top of the table with a 2-2 draw at Celta Vigo on Saturday.
The troubles on the pitch for the Nou Camp outfit come amid reports that there has been a falling out between the players and coaching staff.
And Messi appeared to add more fuel to the fire as he seemed to turn his back on Sarabia while the coach was giving instructions.
In a clip, Messi approaches the sideline during a hydration break in the second half of the match.
Sarabia can be seen as he appears to try to get Messi’s attention in an attempt to give some instructions.
But Messi just turns around and walks back onto the pitch, appearing to blank the coach and not respond.
Spanish outlet Marca report the frustration spilled into the dressing room after the match with some Barcelona stars criticising Setien’s tactical decisions throughout the match.
Messi previously appeared to criticise Setien’s tactics with the boss saying Barcelona have what it takes to win Europe’s top prize.
“I never doubted the squad we have and I have no doubt that we can win all that remains, but not by playing in the way we were playing,” Messi told Sport .
“Now, everyone has their opinion and they are all very respectable. Mine is based on the fact that I was lucky to play the Champions League every year and I know that it is not possible to win it by playing as we have been playing. Perhaps Setien misunderstood.”
Though Setien had hit back, saying: “Messi’s words I think have created a big debate.
“We are convinced that we can win the Champions League. We have to improve some things, but without a doubt we are convinced that the team has the potential to win the Champions League.
read also: Rivaldo calls for Setien to rethink tactics
“We can win it. We are convinced we can win the Champions League, of course we can.”