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Malcom Shares How Lionel Messi Tried to Keep Him at Barcelona Before 2019 Transfer

Before his transfer to Zenit St. Petersburg in August 2019, Malcom received a personal plea from Lionel Messi to stay at Barcelona. The Brazilian winger recalled how the Argentine captain believed in his potential despite Malcom struggling to find his place under coach Ernesto Valverde.

In an interview reported by SPORT, Malcom described the conversation where Messi expressed confidence in his future at the club even as Barcelona agreed to Zenit's offer.

Messi Saw Promise in Malcom's Future at Barca

Malcom, who had joined from Bordeaux in 2018, spoke fondly of his year playing alongside Messi and the support he received from the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.

  • Malcom said: "I always tell my friends that I played alongside Messi for a whole year. It was an incredible experience. He always treated me wonderfully."

The key moment came just before Malcom's move to Russia.

  • Malcom recalled: "When I was about to leave for Russia, Messi came to speak to me and said: 'You're a player with a brilliant future ahead of you and you'll become a great footballer.'"
  • He added, "He asked me to stay. He said: 'Stay here, you're one of Barça's players for the future.'"

Why Malcom Chose to Leave Despite Messi's Plea

Even with Messi's encouragement, Malcom felt staying might hinder his growth due to fierce competition for attacking roles. Playing time was his top priority.

  • "I was young and wanted to play matches, gain experience and show my potential," Malcom explained. "I wanted to prove what I was capable of on the pitch."
  • He later questioned his choice: "Perhaps I didn't make the right decision, but I was looking to play regularly, and that's why I chose to go to Russia."

Barcelona officially announced his €40 million transfer plus €5 million in variables to Zenit in August 2019. During his single season at Barcelona, Malcom made 24 appearances and scored four goals.

Messi Trusted Malcom in Crucial Matches

Malcom also remembered Messi encouraging him before the 2019 Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Real Madrid, where he scored Barcelona's equalizer.

  • Malcom recalled: "Before the Clasico against Real Madrid, he said to me: 'We're counting on you. Get ready because you're going to play.'"
  • "He was always there to encourage me, motivate me and give me confidence, even when I was tired or competing with others for a spot," he added.

Reflecting on the season, Malcom acknowledged Messi's influence on his development.

  • "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."

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