Barcelona boss Koeman provides a Messi injury update

The six-time Ballon d’Or winner missed Barcelona’s last game through injury ahead of the trip to Huesca on Sunday.

Ronald Koeman has reported that Lionel Messi has suffered no discomfort in his ankle upon making a return to training on Wednesday, implying the skipper will be available for the club’s first game of 2021.

Messi sat out of Barcelona’s 1-1 draw against Eibar on Tuesday due to a minor ankle problem. His absence was a mere precaution aimed at ensuring a full recovery from the injury rather than aggravating it.

And now, in a pre-match conference on Saturday, Koeman was able to confirm Messi’s progress and the star’s positive mindset.

“He is doing well,” said the Barcelona manager on Messi. “He trained on the 30th and 31st, while the rest were off.

“He doesn’t have any discomfort. He is ready, happy and motivated. He is important for us.”

❝Leo is fine … he's really excited and that's important for us.❞
— @RonaldKoeman, on #Messi returning to the squad pic.twitter.com/9x3uriycQ6

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 2, 2021

Doubts over Messi’s future flared up again on New Year’s Day, as it meant the Argentine can officially begin talks over a free summer transfer to other clubs. However, he recently announced no decision on his future will be made until the end of the season.

“I think you have to see his situation, where he carried out the interview, and that he said he does not want to make a decision just yet,” said Koeman on Messi’s future.

“Like any player whose contract is ending, he is free to decide what he wants and how he wants.

“He has shown that he wants the best for this team. I don’t see any problem if he doesn’t decide now. We don’t have to be nervous or worried.”

It’s not all been good news for the Blaugrana, though.