Ex-Barca goalkeeper Valdes: The attitude of Lionel Messi cannot be questioned

Valdes has backed his close friend Messi.

Lionel Messi's former team-mate Victor Valdes has been touched by how the Argentine has been treated by Barcelona FC.

Valdes, who is the current manager of Catalonian side Horta, said he has suffered because Messi's attitude cannot be questioned even if he was keen him trying to force a move away from the Blaugranas.

The Argentina international confirmed last Friday he will be staying at Camp Nou to avoid a legal battle with the Spanish club.

"I have suffered during this because he is my colleague," Valdes, who spent nearly two decades with the Catalan giants, told RAC1.

"Leo was with me since making it to the first team and I've always had a strong connection with him.

"I have suffered because the attitude of Leo cannot be questioned, nor his qualities. I've been hurt by the comments but we know this exists in football.

"I am very happy that Barca can keep him and I hope he can give many happy moments to them.

"I think it'll be a good season for him. We will see the Leo who can show what he's capable of. It's guaranteed he can be decisive in every game - that's the most important thing."

Messi was hoping to exercise a clause in his contract and depart for free, but Barca and LaLiga disputed his right to do so, and he returned to training this week.

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