Lionel Messi will play no part in Barcelona's pre-season friendly against Hamburg this evening.

The Argentine international has remained in Spain to receive treatment on a calf complaint.

Discussing the situation, coach Tito Vilanova revealed that he has decided to rest the 25-year-old in order to prevent the problem from getting worse.

"If he played he would be risking a more serious injury. We hope he can be available for Saturday," Vilanova told reporters.

Barca are due to take on Manchester United in a friendly encounter next month.

Written by
Liam Apicella