TheCable

Lionel Messi, Barcelona ace forward, has resumed training for the first time since his failed attempt to force a move away from the club.

The 33-year-old Argentine, who is the club’s all-time record goalscorer, had recently declared that he would stay at the club to see out his contract that ends next summer — after the Spanish giant had denied him the opportunity to leave.

On Monday, the diminutive attacker, according to Sky Sports, was seen entering the Joan Gamper training ground ahead of an evening session.

He also took part in training, although alone, and is expected to continue in that manner for the next few days — based on La Liga’s coronavirus protocols — before reintegrating with his teammates at a later date.

Javier Tebas, La Liga president, had during the launch of the new 2020/21 season, said he was “never seriously worried” Messi would leave Barcelona during the saga.

“We want Messi to be with us. He is the best player in the history of football and we want him to end his career in La Liga,” BBC quoted him to have said.

“He has been with us for 20 years and we are so pleased he is staying with us and not going to another league.”

Barcelona begin their La Liga campaign against Villarreal on September 27.