Lionel Messi Makes Unusual Admission, Reveals Barcelona Game Plan Ahead Of Champions League

Lionel Messi has made an unusual admission during a new interview about how Barcelona managed to bounce back and revealed some of the important things the club needs to do ahead of the Champions League.

Despite losing the LaLiga title to Real Madrid this season, Barcelona managed to secure a 5-0 win over Alaves on Sunday. Following the decisive victory, Messi addressed several issues regarding the team’s performances, something the Barcelona captain rarely does.

Speaking to Movistar and BarcaTV (via Besoccer.com), the 33-year-old acknowledged the contribution of coach Quique Setien, saying, "As the coach said the other day, we did good things and we have to keep that up."

In a surprising move, Messi also candidly spoke about the club's embarrassing defeat to Osasuna in its last home game of the season. After the victory over Alaves, Messi looked back at the loss and, with a different tone, admitted that it had been a "difficult game."

However, he also revealed Barcelona's turning point and how the team managed to get back on its feet.

"The feeling is different, this time we saw something different. It was a difficult game to play because of the situation we were in, the kick-off time, the heat," Messi admitted. "The team showed a different attitude and more commitment and it's a step in the right direction ahead of what's to come which is going to be difficult.

"The main thing we did was criticize ourselves in private," he continued. "We realized a lot of things were not right. We improved our quality and commitment. [Afterward], things can go for you or not, but you can't be beaten because of a lack of effort. You have to put in as much or more effort than your opponents."

Barcelona is set to face Napoli in Leg 2 of the Champions League. Ahead of the must-win match, Messi listed the things the team needs to do and what they should focus on. According to the Argentine icon, individual recognitions are secondary and emphasized that returning with "clear heads" would be essential for their return.

"It's an important moment for us because we are playing for important things, but you do not need to have the captain's armband for that. We are all aware that we have to be more consistent. The individual prizes are secondary,” Messi said.

"We need a bit of calm now in this break. We have to clear our heads and return more keen than ever before. We already said what we had to say, now we have to settle down and do our best," he concluded.