It’s been almost a year since Lionel Messi and Barcelona ‘split’. Even though the Argentine’s departure came as a surprise and was difficult for the Spanish side, the Blaugrana paid tribute to him on his 35th birthday on Friday, June 24.

Apart from sharing their birthday wishes on social media, Xavi’s team also compiled a video of their former captain’s best moments and posted it on their website. It includes footage from his first game at Camp Nou, as well as his subsequent appearances there, in addition to goals and assists, training sessions, his relationship with Neymar and some of his press conferences.

Last summer, COVID-19 regulations prevented the 35-year-old from saying goodbye to supporters as he had hoped. As a result, as part of Barcelona’s 125th anniversary festivities in 2024, the club are hoping the striker will take part in an event honoring his outstanding career in Catalonia.

Why didn’t any Barcelona player commemorate Messi’s birthday?

Although Barcelona have set aside time to commemorate the 35th birthday of one of their legends, it should be noted that no current player at the club has officially wished Lionel Messi a happy birthday. Although they haven’t publicly congratulated the Paris Saint-Germain ace, it’s possible they shared their wishes privately.

It’s also important to note that not all Barcelona players are good friends with Messi either. There were previously reports that the striker’s relationship with Gerard Pique and Marc-Andre ter Stegen is strained. Moreover, Barca’s current squad consists of several young players who haven’t had the chance to play alongside the Argentine.

Messi and Pique, who had recently parted ways with longtime partner Shakira, are said to have a falling out, with the latter allegedly the driving force behind the Argentine’s exit last year. One of Leo’s family friends went even further last month when he posted an Instagram post criticizing the Spanish defender.

Another reason why the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s connection with the Barcelona players has deteriorated is due to poor communication in the dressing room, according to macaw. His closest friends in Spain were two of the current captains, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, with whom he has an excellent relationship. It seems like it’s not enough for them to show public affection towards their ex-teammate.