Messi’s gang returns after holiday in Dubai
After a relaxing few days in Dubai over the international break, Lionel Messi and his family touched down back in Barcelona late on Monday night.
The Nou Camp superstar enjoyed a fairly low-key arrival as he wore a hood and carried his son Mateo, but he was stopped for a few photos by adoring fans.
His partner Antonella carried their youngest child Ciro, born in March, while their eldest Thiago walked alongside.
The family of five have been in Abu Dhabi making the most of some warm weather away from Europe, with Messi posting a picture of a water park over the weekend.
The Argentinian also enjoyed some time with Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba, after the pair were pictured together at a restaurant.
They were entertained by culinary celebrity Salt Bae, and his famous sprinkling technique, while Manchester United’s Ashley Young also made an appearance.
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Messi and his Barcelona team-mates will now begin preparations for a huge clash with Atletico Madrid on Saturday night.
Barcelona are top of La Liga but following a defeat last time out, third-placed Atletico are now hot on their heels and only one point behind.
Sevilla and unlikely rivals Alaves are also on 23 points with Atletico, while Real Madrid and their new manager Santiago Solari are back in sixth.