Enrique states that Messi will not be fully fit for Clasico, Rakitic Returns From Calf Injury

Luis Enrique has stated that Lionel Messi will not be fully fit for El Clasico even if the signs have been positive during training.

Describing Messi’s progress at a news conference, Enrique said, “Since he started training again (on Monday) the feelings are positive. He has recovered and he is playing at the same level as the rest of the squad. Obviously he won’t be at 100 percent in physical terms due to the time he has been out but he is so important that to have him recovered at least gives us some security.”

Messi hasn’t played since September ever since he injured his knee. Still, Barca have managed to remain on top of the table and are three points clear of Real Madrid, thanks to the efforts of both Neymar and Luis Suarez.

The manager also said that a decision will be made on Saturday as to whether Messi will be in the starting eleven for the El Clasico at the Bernabeu. A win for Barca could mean being six points clear of Real Madrid and in contention for a sixth La Liga title in the past eight years.

Apart from the good news about Messi, Rakitic also returned to training after a calf injury. So, if he starts this weekend, then he will join Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets in mid-field while Messi will join both Neymar and Suarez up front.

Luis Enrique refused to complain about the anonymous complaint made by an assistant referee through a lawyer that he was given instructions by Spanish soccer federation refereeing committee to favor Real in the upcoming Clasico.