Lionel Messi in the line of fire, this time against critics who claim he has grown “lazy” and not working hard enough. Barca coach Koeman took a shot back saying “Teams like Barcelona need to be at the top of La Liga point table all the time and if they aren’t, then there’s always criticism”. Messi was trolled left, right and centre over a social media clip that showed him largely inactive while Barcelona lost the ball possession during their match against Dynamo Dyiv.
Messi is a key player a piece out-of-context doesn’t set any sort of benchmark, Koeman told reporters.
Barcelona had a rough start this season, Messi is yet to score any open chances, though he managed to score on penalties. Critics claim his work rate has dropped significantly ever since he tried to exit the club last August - September.
“Messi is mentally good, enjoying this sport. He's a winner and sometimes you go through moments when the ball doesn't go in, but he looks really focused on that subject” Koeman told media.
