adminLONDON. — Lionel Messi admits situations on and off the pitch last season affected him, but says he is enjoying his football again after a fantastic term with Barcelona.
Messi has played a key role in the club’s success this season, scoring 58 goals in a campaign that has brought them Spanish La Liga and Copa Del Rey success. The club can win just their second treble in their 115-year history if they beat Juventus in the Champions League final in Berlin tonight and Messi heads into the game as the competition’s all-time leading scorer after notching his 77th Champions League goal in the 3-0 victory over Bayern Munich in the first-leg of the semi-final.
Messi admits he had problems in the season 2013/14 season but paid tribute to a Barcelona he believes — as per their famous motto — is more than a club.
Speaking ahead of today’s showdown with Juventus in Berlin, he said: “Perhaps over last year [2013/14] the season hasn’t been good for me, because of several situations on and off the pitch.
“Whether you like it or not, this always has an influence on your performance on the pitch.
“I suffered an injury and it took me a while to get back and do what I wanted to do. So a few things weren’t so good.
“I have always tried to enjoy it and do things well. And now this season I have tried to be the same as last year.
“I have been very grateful for what the club has done for me and the warmth and support I received from it. — Sky Sports.
Online Reporter