Josep Maria Bartomeu has maintained that neither Lionel Messi nor Luis Enrique will leave Barcelona, despite claims of a bust-up between the pair.
The forward had been linked with a mammoth transfer to Chelsea, while the Coach reportedly faced the sack if La Blaugrana’s on-pitch performances did not improve, but the President is adamant that the duo will stay put for the foreseeable future.
“Luis Enrique has our project in his hands and signed a two-year contract. He’s rebuilding the team and working with the players. He’s the right man for the job, the ideal man,” he stated at a Press conference.
“Luis Enrique is motivated, has a very interesting project ahead. It was one of his goals to come here, and he wants to prove he's a great Coach.
“I won’t confirm or deny meeting with Oscar Garcia. Messi has a contract until 2018. He’s happy and we’re happy. We’re very calm about his future.
“Our leader, the best player in our team is Leo, and he has a contract. We’re happy with him.
“Everyone knows that the club won't sell Messi. Leo is the cornerstone of the team, he leads the life of this club.
“I’m not going to explain my dealings with Messi and Luis Enrique. Things are going well. We won't get in between a Coach and a player. We’ve been in contact and things are looking good.
“The dressing room is a sacred place. I see a happy Leo, who is involved with the team and is very motivated.
“He’s the best player in the world and he’ll continue playing here. Talk of a club meeting his release clause is just speculation.
“I spoke with Leo and other players and they know that the Barca President is with them. We want to win.
“I ask that we focus on what's important. Every team need the support of their socios, and the media have an important responsibility.”
