Messi's attitude & qualities cannot be questioned, says Valdes

Victor Valdes rose to the defense of Lionel Messi by insisting his former Barcelona teammate’s attitude and qualities can never be doubted.

Messi confirmed last Friday in an interview with Goal that he ended attempts to force a move away from Barcelona this summer to avoid a bitter legal battle with ‘the club of my life’.

The Argentine planned to exploit a clause available to him at the end of each season that would make his contract void. However, Josep Maria Bartomeu denied his request by stating the June 10 deadline date had passed.

While disappointed by the president’s decision, Messi vowed to continue giving his all for Barcelona and returned to training earlier this week.

❌ marks the spot 🐐
🔵🔴 #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/1e5lpvs803

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 10, 2020

Now Valdes, who played alongside Messi at youth and senior level during his near-two decade long association Barcelona, has backed him to come good in the upcoming season.

The former goalkeeper told RAC1: “I have suffered during this because he is my colleague.

“Leo was with me since making it to the first team and I’ve always had a strong connection with him.

“I have suffered because the attitude of Leo cannot be questioned, nor his qualities. I’ve been hurt by the comments but we know this exists in football. I am very happy that Barca can keep him and I hope he can give many happy moments to them.

“I think it’ll be a good season for him. We will see the Leo who can show what he’s capable of. It’s guaranteed he can be decisive in every game – that’s the most important thing.”

Valdes now coaches Catalan club Horta after ending his playing career in 2017.