- Lionel Messi says he does not know Ernesto Valverde on a personal level
- The Argentine is willing to work with the former Atletic Bilbao coach
- Messi says Barcelona's target this season is to win all available titles
Barcelona star Lionel Messi says he does not know new coach Ernesto Valve, but says he has heard hugely positive reviews about the new Catalan club boss.
The Argentine says he has heard hugely positive reviews about the new Barcelona boss.
Messi hopes the impressive reputation of the former Athletic Bilbao boss will rub off on himself and his teammates ahead of the new season.
Lionel Messi can't wait to work with Valverde. Photo: fcbarcelona.com
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"With the new manager everything will be new," Messi said in Tokyo at a commercial event for new sponsors Rakuten.
"I don't know what kind of manager he is, but he is a great person.
"He was with Valencia and Bilbao, we are hearing a lot about his very good reputation, so we are pinning our hopes on this new beginning.
"Whenever I start a new season there is a very clear-cut goal, which is that Barcelona will do our best.
"Personally I am very happy and looking forward to starting a new season. We have new coaches and assistants. I would like to work with them and enjoy Barcelona for another year."
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Valverde has replaced Luis Enrique as head coach at Camp Nou, with Barca's pre-season campaign set to get under way next week's against Juventus in New Jersey.
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