I’m not the one who appointed Martino – Messi

Barcelona star Lionel Messi has dispelled suggestions that he was behind the club’s decision to invite Gerardo Martino as the team’s new coach.

Before Martino was appointed as Barcelona manager, Messi spoke positively about him. What is more, Martino’s last club was Newell's Old Boys—the club where Messi played before moving to Barcelona.

“I don’t have anything to do with the signing of Martino and I have nothing to explain. It’s [Barça President Sandro] Rosell and the club’s thing. At that time, I said that he looked like a good coach, but I have nothing to explain.

“I don’t know him personally and have never seen him or Luis Enrique, who was also linked. He seems to be a good signing as he has demonstrated with Newell’s and Paraguay that he is capable. Hopefully he’ll do well here.

“After Tito’s departure, we must begin again. It will be a hard season for us,” Goal.com quotes Messi.

To note, Martino’s first press conference as Barcelona manager will be held on Friday.