Carles Puyol reacts to Lionel Messi’s return to Barcelona

Lionel Messi is staying at Barcelona for one more season after initially announcing his intentions to leave but having a change of heart after learning he wouldn’t be able to leave the club for free.

The captain has returned to training and started his preseason under new manager Ronald Koeman, and while it remains to be seen what Messi’s attitude will be and how he will fit in Koeman’s plans, it’s undeniable that Barça will be a better team this season having the GOAT as part of the plans.

And Barça legend Carles Puyol agrees, taking to Instagram to send a mesage of optimism to the team and to Culés everywhere.

“Happy to see you continue to defend Barcelona’s shirt. I continue to trust these players and with Leo undoubtedly we are stronger”, wrote Puyol.

Barça will play their first preseason friendly under Koeman against Nàstic on Saturday.