The day Messi told Valverde that Neymar might leave Barcelona
Guillem Balague recalls the conversation Messi had with Valverde in the United States about PSG's pursuit of Neymar
The journalist, Guillem Balague, has just published a revised and updated version of his Lionel Messi autobiography with a chapter dedicated to Ernesto Valverde.
In it he explains the initial meetings between the Argentinian and the head coach. Those first few weeks were largely dominated by the speculation surrounding Neymar and the Brazilian became the main attract on that United States tour.
Messi told Valverde about Neymar's intentions. In the book it says, "So, during the United States tour, Leo approached Ernesto at training."
"You need to be careful with Neymar, they're going to sign him," said Messi.
"What are you talking about?"
Valverde, who had just arrived at the club, was sure he was the last to find out about this situation and decided to talk with Neymar. Later on he spoke with Leo, Neymar and Luis Suarez together to find out everyone's feelings on the matter. Messi was worried because he was about to lose a key reference in the team, a starter.."
It was a situation in which Messi and Valverde got to know each other better and solidified the trust Messi had in the new coach.
