JAKARTA - Ronald Koeman emphasized that Barcelona are still excited to welcome the new season of the 2021/22 competition, even though this time without Lionel Messi.
On Sunday, August Messi bid farewell to the Catalan club he has played for for 21 years, after Barcelona could not award La Pulga a new contract without violating La Liga's financial rules.
Rumors circulating in the European media said that the 34-year-old superstar would soon join the wealthy French club, Paris Saint-Germain.
Not only failed to give Messi a new contract, Las Blaugranas still couldn't register their new players, namely Sergio Aguero, Eric Garcia and Memphis Depay because their salary budget exceeded the limits imposed by the Spanish League.
Although there are still many problems facing Koeman, he admits that he can't wait to start the new season.
"Even though Messi has split, we are very excited about this season. We are sure that we will bring you a lot of joy this season," the Dutch coach said ahead of the Joan Gamper Trophy against Juventus on Sunday.
"Young players are the future of this great club. It is very difficult to play all year without spectators, we are happy to see you again," he added.
𝐚 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 — 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 .❞— @RonaldKoeman pic.twitter.com/z879ZGJIcV
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 8, 2021
Sergio Busquets will replace Messi as Barcelona's new captain. He thanked his former team-mate and said he was excited for the new challenge.
"It's an honor to be captain," said Busquets.
"I have good examples from Carles Puyol, Xavi and Leo. Thank you Leo for bringing Barca to the highest level... Thank you very much Leo," he concluded.
Barcelona successfully beat Juventus with a score of 3-0 through Memphis Depay, Martin Braithwaite and Riqui Puig.
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