Lionel Messi needs a rest and won't play for Barca against Dynamo Kiev, coach Ronald Koeman says.
Lionel Messi has been left out of the Barcelona squad to face Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League, coach Ronald Koeman says.
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Messi had a flat and tired performance on Saturday in Barcelona's 1-0 defeat away at Atletico Madrid.
But the decision to leave the captain and also midfielder Frenkie de Jong out of the squad to play Dynamo Kiev away on Tuesday was still a major surprise.
"We have decided not to take Messi and De Jong," said Koeman.
"Our Champions League position is comfortable and they need a rest."
De Jong was expected to play in the centre of defence due to injuries of Gerard Pique, Samuel Umtiti and Ronald Araujo.
Australian Associated Press
