How Gonzalo Higuain mocked Leo Messi for being benched after Juventus v Barca

Lionel Messi was – surprsingly – benched in Barcelona’s highly anticipated Champions League clash with Juventus.

And his absence was made very clear, with Barca lacking ideas on the pitch, but managing to go through the knockout stages of the competition, securing a goalless draw.

SPORT reported that Ernesto Valverde made the decision to bench the Argentine, trying to spare him during the busy schedule of Christmas.

It is said that the player took the decision very good and understood he needs a rest from time to time.

But, however, Valverde just couldn’t go the whole 90 minutes without introducing him on the pitch, as he came on for the last 34 minutes of the match.

Furthermore, Messi couldn’t resist chatting with his international teammates, and fellow prolific strikers Gonzalo Higuain and Dybala after the game.

The trio were pictured talking to each-other in the tunnel.

Mundo Deportivo are reporting that Higuain told Messi: “The vest fits you well, the vest of a substitute.”

Messi than produced a”timid laughter” in response.

1. But it’s highly unlikely we will have the chance to see Messi too often with the vest on in the future.