While LIonel Messi flourished under Pep Guardiola's guidance at Barcelona, the Argentine superstar admitted his relationship with his former manager has fizzled out over the years.
Messi, speaking with reporters ahead of Barcelona's semifinal encounter with Pep's Bayern Munich squad, was full of praise for the Spanish boss who helped the Catalans capture two Champions League trophies during his four years in charge. But the pair seemingly lost contact when Guardiola left Barcelona in 2012.
"We had a great time when Pep was here. We won a lot of titles and I grew a lot – that was the time when I grew most as a footballer," Messi explained.
"We had a fantastic relationship when he was here. I have seen him a few times since he left, but we don’t have any kind of relationship now."
Both men will likely share pleasantries upon seeing each other at the Camp Nou on Wednesday, with Messi anticipating a warm reception from the Catalan crowd. However, Messi expects the atmosphere to change when the game begins.
"Guardiola knows us, he knows us all well. We were lucky enough to win a lot of titles with him. Based on what Guardiola meant to the club in his time as coach, I think he will get a good welcome," Messi said. "He gave a lot to the club and he is from here, but I think the fans will support the club and want us to win the game."
In total, Guardiola guided Barcelona to 14 trophies and was the last manager to lead them to the Champions League summit.