Messi can have no doubts about the team - Ronald Koeman

Ronald Koeman has challenged Lionel Messi to consider the improved status of the Barcelona team against Paris Saint Germain and commit his future at Camp Nou.

The Blaugranas failed to advance into the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time since 2006-07 after a 5-2 aggregate to PSG. They were on a run of 13 consecutive quarter-final appearances, the longest such run in the competition’s history and amidst the chances created, they failed to convert them to goals ending the run. 

Messi had the chance to put Barcelona ahead in the first half but his penalty kick took a deflection at Keylor Navas to deny them victory.

Koeman during his pre-match duties told that the 33-year old should consider the promising progress of the team and sign a new contract.

"In general, Leo has seen that the team is getting better and better," Koeman said in his post-match press conference.

"With the changes we've made, bringing in young players... Messi can have no doubts about the future of this team."

Koeman expressed that prolific forward could be a disappointment not to have progressed further in the European club competition especially at the stage where Ronaldo’s side, Juventus were withdrawn by FC Porto. He told that the decision is upon him to believe and trust in the young boys to deliver soon, and his contract extension could be a motivation.

"I don't know if Leo will be annoyed," Koeman stated.

"It's a shame because they are two great players, but you have to accept it. As for Leo's future, it's up to him to decide. Nobody can help him.

"He has seen for a long time that there is a lot of promise in this team. That's not going to be an argument for him not to stay."

For the first season since 2004/05 both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi haven’t reached the Champions League Quarter-Finals.