"It would certainly have been a great advantage to have Messi back"

Barcelona's goal is well secured with Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Before hearing of Hansi Flick's sacking as Germany coach, the goalkeeper spoke about his position.
The German was asked about Xavi and whether Barca's style had changed, betraying the 'Cules' DNA. "That's nonsense. Every philosophy has to evolve. When Xavi was playing, the quality of the team was significantly higher compared to the competition. Since then, everything has become more balanced, especially physically. Now we have to find different solutions," he told 'SPOX and 'Goal'.
"When Xavi left in 2015, we stayed in touch. We have a special connection, a very open relationship. I can separate private and professional matters. I think we Germans are generally good at that," he said.
Ter Stegen also spoke about the decisions Barcelona have made in recent years, particularly in financial matters: "Of course we as players notice it, but we hardly talk about it. The club is doing everything possible to improve our team, despite the difficult situation. In recent years, many good decisions have been taken that have moved the club forward both financially and in sporting terms. But some of them were very painful, especially when it came to sackings".
Ter Stegen put two names on the table. Firstly, that of Messi who, had he returned, would have been "a great advantage". "Maybe he will come back in another role, at some point. Barcelona are his club and will always be a big part of his life. A lot of people here are still in touch with him. Some players he was very close to are now in Miami," he added.
The other one is Lamine Yamal: "His carefree attitude is good for us. I hope he will always have it. He'll have to work on his fitness, but he's only 16. Off the pitch, he's a quiet guy. We should give him time to develop in peace.