FC Barcelona superstar, Lionel Messi, has insisted his manager, Luis Enrique, can take him off whenever he wants.
Messi allegedly denied to come off in Barcelona's 3-0 home victory against Eibar on the weekend but was taken off early in the Champions League game against Ajax.
However, the 27-year-old dismissed reports that he denied to be substituted in the La Liga game.
"A lot has been said in recent days, but Luis Enrique is the manager and he can take me off whenever he wants," he told Marca.
Messi, who is only one goal short of equalling Telmo Zarra's all-time goal record in La Liga, also insisted winning the El Clasico is more important than reaching Zarra's milestone.
"That's less important, what is important is playing well, and if we win all the better," the Argentine continued.
"There's a long way to go in the Liga, but we'll try to win and play as best we know how."
The El Clasico marks the possible return of Luis Suarez and Messi believes the Uruguayan will help his side a lot.
"We can't wait for him to play, he'll help the team a lot - he's an incredible striker," he added.
"I'm very happy to have him with us as he's not enjoyed the period he's not been able to play any matches."
Barcelona, who are yet unbeaten in La Liga this season, will play Real Madrid in the El Clasico on Saturday.
Do you think Lionel Messi denied to come off to break Telmo Zarra's record? Have your say in the comment section below.
