Messi Urged Malcom to Stay at Barcelona Before Transfer to Zenit
Lionel Messi made a personal appeal to Brazilian winger Malcom to remain at Barcelona prior to Malcom’s transfer to Zenit St. Petersburg in August 2019, as revealed by the former Barcelona player himself.
In remarks highlighted by SPORT, Malcom shared that despite facing challenges in establishing himself under coach Ernesto Valverde, Messi still believed in his potential at the club. The Argentine saw qualities in Malcom that he felt could contribute significantly to Barcelona’s future, even as the club agreed to Zenit’s offer.
Malcom, who had joined Barcelona from Bordeaux in 2018, spoke fondly of his experiences during his solitary season with Messi. “I always tell my friends that I played alongside Messi for a whole year. It was an incredible experience. He always treated me wonderfully,” remarked the Brazilian.
The pivotal moment occurred when Malcom was preparing to depart for Russia, during which Messi took the time to speak with him. “You’re a player with a brilliant future ahead of you and you’ll become a great footballer,” Messi encouraged Malcom, urging him not to leave the club.
Despite Messi’s support, Malcom ultimately chose to move, feeling that staying at Barcelona would restrict his development opportunities. “I was young and wanted to play matches, gain experience and show my potential. I wanted to prove what I was capable of on the pitch,” he explained, later questioning whether his decision was the right one.
Barcelona confirmed Malcom’s transfer to Zenit in August 2019 for €40 million, plus €5 million in performance-related bonuses. He left the club having made 24 appearances and scoring four goals in the 2018-19 season.
Malcom also recounted moments that displayed Messi’s trust in him, such as before the 2019 Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Madrid, where the Brazilian netted an equalizer in the first leg. “I remember that before the Clasico against Real Madrid he said to me: ‘We’re counting on you. Get ready because you’re going to play,'” Malcom recalled.
Reflecting on his time at Barcelona, Malcom recognized Messi’s significant influence on his growth as a player, stating, “I learnt so much from Messi. He always spoke to me, cheered me on and helped me. It was an extraordinary season that I’ll never forget.”
