Lionel Messi says ‘these are difficult days for everyone’ as Barcelona stay home

Lionel Messi has taken to social media to express his thoughts on the coronavirus that has seen Barcelona suspend all first-team activity until further notice.

The Barcelona captain and his team-mates were sent home from training on Friday, with Spain reportedly set to join Italy in going into lockdown.

Messi posted a picture on Instagram with his family and the following message:

“These are difficult days for everyone. We live worried about what is happening and we want to help by putting ourselves in the place of those who are going through it worse, either because it directly affected them or their family and friends, or because they are working on the front lines to fight it in hospitals and centers. I want to send a lot of strength to them all.

“Health should always come first. This is an exceptional moment and the indications of both health organisations and public authorities must be followed. Only then can we fight it effectively.

“It’s time to be responsible and stay home, plus it’s perfect to enjoy that time with yours that you can’t always have. A hug and hopefully we can turn this situation around ASAP.”