Lionel Messi returned to Barcelona training on Monday for the first time since trying to leave the club.
The 33-year-old was pictured arriving at Barca’s Joan Gamper Ciutat Esportiva training HQ in his Mercedes on Monday. His expression told the story of his battle with the club over the past week.
Journalists were in full swing at Barca’s training centre waiting to see Messi arrive after his spat with the club. He didn’t disappoint and was even the first player to show up.
The training session marked the first time that he and new coach Ronald Koeman have worked together on the pitch since the Dutchman took over at the club.
As per Marca, Messi arrived way before the usual training time and reports hint he could have held a personal meeting with Koeman before training.
As per guidelines, he will train individually for the next few days before reintegrating with his teammates at a later date.
Barca host Gimnastic in a friendly at the Johan Cruyff Stadium on Saturday, but Messi is not likely to be involved. He could feature against Girona in another friendly on September 16.
