Former Everton manager Ronald Koeman has paid tribute to outgoing Barcelona forward Lionel Messi .
It has been a turbulent twelve months in charge of the La Liga side for Koeman, who has had to deal with a number of issues since his appointment in August 2020.
The latest problem to fix could prove to be an impossible task as Messi's exit from the club was confirmed on Thursday afternoon.
Messi's exit has come as a huge shock to supporters of Barcelona, who have been left devastated by the club's decision.
READ MORE: Everton have three Premier League fixtures moved for TV coverage
Messages of support from former teammates have been flooding in for the 34-year-old, with Gerard Pique and Luis Suarez among those to thank the Argentine for his significant contributions.
Koeman is the latest individual to send Messi a message, singling out his 'worth ethic' and 'desire to win' as his standout characteristics.
"It is still difficult to assimilate that you will not play more in the @fcbarcelona.
"Thank you for all that you have done for the Leo club. I have really enjoyed the season that we have worked together.
"I am impressed by your work ethic and your desire to win.
"This makes you the best player in the world. I wish you and your family all the best! #ForçaBarça."
Messi came close to leaving Camp Nou in last year's summer transfer window, though stayed put for the 2020/21 season.
Serious financial issues have backed Barcelona into a corner, however, making this a nightmare scenario for the club.
Despite the ongoing issues off the pitch for the La Liga side, Koeman urged Messi to remain at Barcelona when addressing the situation back in March.
"Messi must decide his own future, nobody can help him with this," the 58-year-old told Mundo Deportivo.
"He's seen for a long time now that the team is going in the right direction. And with the changes we've made and the youngsters who are only going to improve, he can't have doubts about the future of this team."
