Koeman makes candid critique of Messi's form ahead of Barca's UCL clash with Ferencváros

October 20, 2020 By Ali M.

Topics: Lionel Messi, Ronald Koeman, Barcelona, Ferencváros, UEFA Champions League

The Argentine is yet to score from open play since switching positions under Koeman but will be keen on ending that on Tuesday.

Barcelona are set to kick off their 2020/21 UEFA Champions League campaign today (Tuesday, October 20) when they take on Hungarian outfit Ferencváros. After their embarrassing 2019/20 exit at the hands of Bayern Munich, the Blaugrana will be keen on getting off to a great start but one worrying aspect is the form of talisman forward Lionel Messi.

The Argentine striker has not been at his best so far this term, scoring only once in four games for his team in the Spanish top-flight – that lone strike came courtesy of a penalty. There were hopes he could score his first goal from open play against Getafe but that did not come to fruition, with the Catalan giants inevitably suffering a 1-0 defeat.

Koeman spoke about the form of his skipper, with the Dutchman openly admitting the six-time Ballon d'Or winner is struggling. The newly-appointed boss stated that Leo's performance is not up-to-par but was quick to reaffirm his belief in the club's all-time leading goalscorer.

"Maybe, at the moment, Messi's performances could be better," Koeman said, as per the Daily Mail.

"But he is happy, he is working hard and he wants to be the captain. I don't have a single complaint.

"He has also had some bad luck. He hit the post (in a 1-0 loss to Getafe on Saturday) and on another day that goes in.

"I don't have any doubts about his performances and we're going to see him (at his best) in the upcoming games, I'm sure."

The fact that Lionel is yet to score a goal from open play since the season began is worrying as El Clasico is right around the corner. Barcelona will be at home for their Champions League game and given the opponent, they are all but destined to win. However, next Saturday, they will host the reigning Spanish champions in what should be a difficult fixture.

Given that Messi is the all-time leading scorer in El Clasico, the Blaugrana will need their captain to return to the peak of his powers. The clash with Ferencváros might just be the perfect game for that.