Guardiola denies rift between David Villa & Lionel Messi
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has refuted claims that David Villa and Lionel Messi have fallen out while also stating he 'has nothing to say' on Zlatan Ibrahimovic's autobiography which criticises the 40-year-old. Earlier on this week Spanish newspaper Superdeporte claimed that a rift had developed between the two forwards, something Messi was quick to deny.
With the Catalan club due to face Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, Guardiola was keen to play down the rumour in his press conference. "It is impossible to argue with David, both he and Leo are good people. He is very generous on the pitch and in his personal life, it's impossible to fall out with David. Leo has been clear, David is clear, there is nothing [to the rumours]," he told reporters.
The trainer then addressed questions on his reported fractious relationship with the club's former striker, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who is to release an explosive autobiography in two weeks - including details of a break down in communication between himself and Guardiola. "[I have] nothing to say. There was nothing personal. I just want to thank him for the year he gave us where we reached 99 points [in La Liga]. He played, he proved his quality and helped us reach the semi-finals of the Champions League. There is nothing more to say," he added. Guardiola then turned his attentions to his side's task on Sunday, picking up another three points against Athletic Bilbao.
"They're a team that do not let you breathe, very aggressive and tight at the back. We will do well to beat them. It will be a fantastic match because both teams will try to attack, we will attack from the first to the last minute. We have to be faster than ever with the ball. The only way to win is to be braver than them," he said.
The Catalan coach then concluded his conference by praising opposite number, Marcelo Bielsa, whom he knows on a personal level after previously visiting the Argentine in his homeland. "I am grateful for his hospitality, he treated me and my friend very well. We talked about the game. I have great admiration for him. I am lucky to face him on Sunday. I'm looking forward to shaking his hand and seeing him again," he concluded. Going into the weekend Barcelona currently sit in second place, a point behind rivals Real Madrid who face Osasuna. [Goal.com]
