Lionel Messi has been one of the best players in the world doubt, and it is not surprising to see even a club like Barcelona being reliant on the Argentine superstar. This has often seen him rushed back from major injuries in the hope of getting results. This has not been a major factor until now. He recently suffered the third injury of the season, which has prompted speculation that Barcelona are not handling him properly. Manager Gerardo Martino has rejected those speculation by saying that Barcelona will give all the time required to get Messi 100% fit.
Barcelona had to take off Messi after just 18 minutes on the clock in the recent win over Real Betis. Even though the team did not need the presence of the 26-year-old in order to complete the 4-1 win, this is a major blow for the club. It is rumoured that he has suffered a hamstring injury, which could keep him out for up to 2 months in the worst-case scenario. Martino has rejected speculation that the latest injury has occurred in the same leg, which caused him problems a month ago. Messi was out for a couple of weeks before being rushed back from the sidelines.
“This injury has nothing to do with his last one. This time he felt discomfort in his right leg. We have the best player in the world, but also four or five others who are among the best. Messi’s absence can never be an excuse,” said the manager regarding Messi’s injury. Barcelona are top of the table after managing at another three points, while their closest rivals Atletico Madrid dropped points in the 1-1 draw with Villarreal. Messi is at a disadvantage compared to Cristiano Ronaldo and Franck Ribery in the race for the FIFA Ballon d’Or award this season.