Lionel Messi has revealed that he was shocked and upset by Pep Guardiola's decision to step down as Barcelona manager.

Guardiola ended his spell at the Catalan club with a win in the Copa Del Rey final, and Messi claims that he was disappointed not to win the league and Champions League in Guardiola's final season.

Messi told AS: "I was surprised and saddened by Guardiola's departure after four great years together with many titles. It won't be easy after all that Pep achieved, but they did everything together and Tito [Vilanova] was a great help in these years.

"We were close to winning the league and the Champions League. I am madder about the Champions League because I think our elimination was unjust and also for missing that penalty."

Vilanova will succeed Guardiola as manager of Barcelona.

Written by
Callum Mulvihill