Real Betis boss Pepe Mel has claimed that he wants to face Barcelona with a fit Lionel Messi.
The Argentine forward was stretchered off against Benfica on Wednesday, but reports today have suggested that he could be fit enough to play against the Verdiblancos.
And the 49-year-old has revealed that he wants the Blaugrana record-breaker to be involved.
“I would prefer it if Messi plays,” he told a Press conference. “Our dressing room is happy that there is nothing wrong with him.
“Clearly, if he does not play, then their team is weakened, but this is a show – Messi is the best in the world.
“But Barca are not what they are just because of Messi.
“We've always tried to play face-to-face with them – I think it's the best way to play. Otherwise it is just a betrayal.”
