The offensive trio all hail from countries traditionally great rivals, but the 28-year-old star says that this has arguably been of benefit to their relationship at Camp Nou
Lionel Messi says there is no great rivalry with Barcelona club-mates Luis Suarez and Neymar, although he admits that there is some friendly joking between the offensive trio.
Between them, they have contributed 94 goals to the Catalans’ cause in all competitions this term, but on the international scene they play for a trio of South American sides who are historically great rivals.
Nevertheless, Messi, who turns out for Argentina, says that the only jibes made between the attackers are light hearted.
“We all play for Barcelona, so there’s no rivalry,” he told El Graphico. “We’re professionals. When you represent your side, your role changes, but there’s no great rivalry or tension.”
Indeed, the 28-year-old believes that sharing a similar background the Uruguayan Suarez and the Brazilian Neymar actually helps their understanding on the field.
“Perhaps being Latino gives up a more similar approach,” he said.
Messi’s Barca tackle Rayo Vallecano on Thursday, aiming to rebuild their eight-point advantage after closest rivals Atletico Madrid beat Real Sociedad 3-0 on Tuesday.
- Goal