Ronald Koeman began his reign as Barcelona manager win a win against Girona and Lionel Messi scored in the 3-1 friendly win at the Nou Camp.

The Argentine almost left the club this summer when he told the club about his intention to play elsewhere but they refused. After the saga, the player agreed to continue at the Nou Camp.

It will be a huge relief for fans of the club especially with the sight of Messi scoring in their colours again. The 33-year-old found space on the edge of the box and played in a pass for Francisco Trincao, who squared the ball for Philippe Coutinho to tap into the empty net.

The Barca captain received a pass from Brazilian Philippe Coutinho and turned away from Samu Saiz before firing a right-footed that hit the right post and went in for 2-0.

Interestingly, Messi and Antoine Griezmann both played the No.9 position but changed at different times in a unique formation by Koeman.

Girona cut the deficit to 2-1 in the second half, but Messi was once again on hand to restore Barcelona’s two-goal lead as he sent a left foot shot towards Juan Carlos’ goal from the edge of the box but it was deflection from Jonas Ramalho and left the goalkeeper wrongfooted.

source:- fcnaija