Lionel Messi has looked to make clear that he has taken no issue to being substituted by Tata Martino during Barcelona’s win over Real Sociedad.
The Argentine scored the Catalans’ second of the night in Week 6’s eventual 4-1 win, before being replaced on 80 minutes.
Whilst looking disappointed with the decision, the player has released a statement through his Facebook page to clarify that any frustration apparent was not directed at his Coach.
“At no time have I intended to make a gesture when Martino took me off,” wrote Messi.
“Nobody likes to come off, but we must accept it because it is the best for our team.
“What I will not accept is that certain media tell lies about any situation that happens around me.”
It was suggested that the 26-year-old had ignored Martino’s attempts to speak to him in walking off, or that he had even gestured towards his compatriot.
