Mathieu explains Messi-Enrique spat

Barcelona’s Jeremy Mathieu has admitted that a spat between Lionel Messi and Luis Enrique did take place but insisted it is now water under the bridge.

The Catalans pair were reported to have engaged in a training-ground row shortly after the Christmas holidays, and the defender confirmed this to be the case, although it was quickly resolved.

“It’s true that we’ve got ourselves out of the mini-crisis which hit us recently,” he said in a radio interview with RMC.

“The club have got the machine back up and running and I hope it all goes well.

“The Coach makes many rotations and makes sure all the players feel very involved in the project.

“Luis Enrique leaves no-one behind. We’re doing well like this. We’re all comfortable with him.

“We said some truths in order to improve the situation. There was some friction between Leo [Messi] and the Coach.

“They’re moments which all teams experience at some point during the season.

“The good thing is that the Coach has managed these tensions and reverted everything back to normal.

“Besides, the victories came at the right time. They’ve helped us a lot.

“It was in training earlier this month. Just after our return from [the Christmas] holidays.

“Suddenly, because of a foul which the Coach didn’t give during a practice match, Messi got his wires crossed a little and there was friction between the two.

“The things which needed to be said were said. Luis Enrique spoke to Leo in the dressing room afterwards and everything was sorted out.

“Again, it happens at all clubs, but Barca are highly publicised, so everything is magnified.

“I’m feeling much better now. The team have worked very well in my absence, but I’m willing to fight [for my place] and convince the Coach that I deserve to play.”

Tags Jeremy Mathieu Lionel Messi Luis Enrique
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