Barcelona

Koeman on Messi 'walking' video: I'm not interested

The Barcelona head coach has defended his player, who received criticism after a perceived lack of intensity against Dynamo Kyiv

 
4:57pm on Friday 6th November 2020
By
Martin Macdonald

Ronald Koeman says he "isn't interested" in discussing any theories about Lionel Messi's so-called 'walking video' which done rounds on social media following Barcelona's narrow 2-1 win against Dynamo Kyiv.

In the Champions League match on Wednesday, Messi could be seen allowing a defender to pass him a bit too easily with 10 seconds remaining in the game, after he had gave Barcelona the lead with an early penalty.

This sparked theories on social media that Messi wasn't trying or was lazy.

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The Lionel Messi 'walking' video is just a total lie

Koeman isn't entertaining such suggestions.

"Anyone can get an image walking. I'm not interested. I have not seen him walking. If you want to mount controversy it is your problem. I do not agree," the Dutchman said in the pre-match press conference for this weekend's game against Betis.

The former Everton and Southampton boss also discussed Messi's current state of mind at the club, and insists he sees a happy club captain.

"Leo is a great player and we want him on the field where he can do damage," Koeman explained.

"He is very important especially in attack and has played in different positions, such as a false nine or as a winger. We believe in him and he always creates problems on the contrary.

"Emotionally, I see him good and strong, always enjoying this sport. He is showing a lot and like any player he goes through more complicated moments or in which the ball does not enter [the goal]."

Messi is yet to score in open play this season, but does have a few goals from the penalty spot.

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