'Messi retirement not bad for Barca' – Luis Enrique

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'Messi retirement not bad for Barca' – Luis Enrique

The 29-year-old has broken Albiceleste hearts with his decision to leave the national side, but his club boss is less bothered by the attacker's choice.

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique has taken something of an indifferent stance on Lionel Messi's decision to retire from the Argentina national team.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner made the decision to hang up his boots at international level after the Albiceleste suffered a third consecutive major final defeat, losing to Chile at the Copa America Centenario decider this summer.

Messi missed his penalty in the shootout as his side added to their World Cup and Copa America heartbreak in 2014 and 2015, respectively, prompting him to announce shortly afterwards that he would not feature for his country again.

Pleas have been made by the country's supporters for him to reverse his decision, while a statue has been erected in his home country in a bid to entice the superstar back to the national team.

At club level, however, the attacker's boss is less bothered by Messi's decision.

"Speaking as Barcelona's head coach, it wouldn't be bad for us," Luis Enrique said. "It means fewer games and trips away for Messi.

"I'm not saying it's a perfect situation but he could have more time to rest.

"He said that after a difficult time, after losing a final. So he still needs to confirm whether or not he part of the international team.

"As a football fan, I would like to keep watching him play for Argentina. But as Barcleona's head coach.... Let's see what happens."