Chelsea have suffered a massive blow in their hope of signing Lionel Messi after Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed the superstar is happy at Nou Camp.
The Argentine international has been constantly linked with a move to the Stamford Bridge since the turn of the year. There have been concerns over his happiness at the Catalan club, which has raised concern over his future with the La Liga giants.
In addition to this, Messi’s relation with Barcelona manager Luis Enrique broke down after their 1-0 defeat at the hands of Real Sociedad. However, the Spanish outfit’s president has cleared the air, claiming the forward is happy at Barcelona.
“I can’t come out every day to deny every rumour floating around the club. Lionel Messi has a contract, he’s happy here and keen to win more titles. There’s nothing to panic about in that regard,” Bartomeu explained.
“The dressing room is a sacred place. Many things can happen there but they stay there. Lionel Messi is the leader of our team. He is our best player and we are counting on his services.”
“You just need to watch him on the pitch, he is not the player of last season. Everyone in football knows Barca do not want to sell Messi. So there is no issue,” Barcelona president added.
Meanwhile, Barcelona manager has also played down the speculation and suggested that the dressing room is a happy place.
“I have the same relationship with all the players. We know each other better now but there is no change in the relationship. I have the support of the club and the players. I continue my work with professionalism and I am not here to deny stories,” Enrique explained.