- Barcelona star, Lionel Messi, tells Enersto Valverde not to start Andre Gomes or Paulinho in the match against Chelsea
- Messi wants Ousmane Dembele and Denis Suarez to fill the two vacant positions in the midfield
- Andres Iniesta is doubtful because of injury while Philippe Coutinho is cup-tied with Liverpool
Lionel Messi has reportedly told Barcelona coach to start Ousmane Dembele and Denis Suarez in the starting XI that will face Chelsea in the Champions League round of 16 second leg match in Nou Camp, Don Balon reports.
The first leg at Stamford Bridge ended in a 1-1 draw and according to the Spanish media outlet, Don Balon, Messi has told Ernesto Valverde to start the Frenchman and the Spaniard.
Don Balon also added that the Argentine does not want Valverde to feature Andre Gomes and Paulinho in place of the youngsters for the crucial tie against the London club.
READ ALSO: Arsenal star Ainsley Maitland-Niles abandons his mother in a container
Following the injury to Andres Iniesta over the weekend against Atletico Madrid, Messi believes Denis Suarez will fit into the left side of attack, while Dembele should fill the void of Philippe Coutinho who is ineligible to feature in the competition because he is cup-tied.
PAY ATTENTION: Like our Facebook sports page to stay in touch with latest sports news
Chelsea were totally dominated as they lost to high flying Manchester City at the weekend thanks to a goal from Bernado Silva in almost a one-sided affair.
Going by the lackluster performance from Antonio Conte's men against City, the Blues will have to do something special if they want to qualify at the expense of Barcelona.
Though the tie is not over yet, Chelsea must score a goal to stay in contention with hope of qualification and must not concede but that would be if everything is working in their favour.
Barcelona are on the back drop of a ninth La Liga title in 14 years and are also aiming to win a treble this season with their commanding display this campaign.
Smartphone giveaway winner announcement. On NAIJ.com TV
Source: Sports.naija.ng