A rocky start: departures, decisions, and rising tension

When Luis Enrique took over Barcelona in 2014, his vision was clear: reshape the locker room on his own terms. But some of his early decisions didn’t sit well with Lionel Messi’s inner circle. The exits of Fàbregas, Pinto, and especially long-time kit man Txema Corbella, struck a nerve with the Argentine — and it all eventually boiled over into a confrontation that would go down in club history.

The moment everything snapped

Tensions were already simmering… Then, after the holiday break, Messi returned to training a couple of days later than the rest of the squad — with the club’s permission. But to Luis Enrique, a coach known for treating everyone the same, it didn’t go unnoticed.

During a training scrimmage, Messi furiously protested a foul that Luis Enrique — acting as referee — didn’t call. Things escalated. Shouting, insults, and a heated exchange played out in front of the entire squad. The drama continued in the locker room. That weekend, Messi started on the bench against Real Sociedad, played poorly, and clashed again with the coach.

The next day, Messi didn’t show up to training. Luis Enrique tried to contact him but got no response. He even considered opening a disciplinary file. Only the intervention of team captains prevented a formal punishment — but by then, it was clear: the relationship was badly fractured.

From tension to triumph

What looked like a permanent rupture eventually gave way to one of the most successful seasons in club history. With time and dialogue, Messi and Luis Enrique repaired their relationship and led Barça to a legendary 2015: La Liga, Copa del Rey, Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup. From shouting matches in January to hugs in December, they lifted every trophy together.

When Luis Enrique stepped down in 2017, it was Leo himself who asked him to stay. And later, both acknowledged the rough patch. “We had a disagreement. It lasted a little while,” Messi would say. “There was tension I didn’t look for, but had to manage,” admitted Luis Enrique.

Reunion at the Club World Cup

This Sunday, fate brings them face to face once again: Inter Miami vs. Paris Saint-Germain, in the Round of 16 at the Club World Cup. Two old acquaintances, now on opposing sides. No shouting this time — but plenty of intrigue. And surely, a warm embrace between two men who went from clashing… to mutual respect.