‘I’m Surprised’ — Real Madrid Manager Ancelotti Reacts to Messi Leaving Barcelona | OneFootball

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti admitted to being “surprised” when he found out that Lionel Messi could not re-sign with Barcelona.

Messi shocked the footballing world when he not only announced that he could not return to Barca due to financial complications but also following his decision to sign with PSG.

Many could have never envisioned that Messi would don a non-Barca football shirt at any point over the remainder of his career, but this is what has transpired over the past week.

Ancelotti much admires Messi’s run with Barca, which he recently spoke further about ahead of Real Madrid’s upcoming La Liga opener against Deportivo Alaves (via Bein Sports).

“I’m surprised, shocked,” Ancelotti said. “He was always Barca’s emblem really, since he was a child. But I’ve been in this game 40 years, I’ve seen lots of players change allegiances. I fully respect his decision and Barcelona’s decision.”

Ancelotti could possibly have to prepare to face Messi soon if Real Madrid and PSG meet in the UEFA Champions League competition over the upcoming season. The Argentine forward has had plenty of success in going up against Ancelotti-coached teams over his lengthy career.