Guardiola denies Villa, Messi bust-up

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has refuted claims David Villa and Lionel Messi have fallen out.

The 40-year-old also offered no comment on an autobiography from Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic that was critical of Guardiola.

Earlier this week Spanish newspaper Superdeporte claimed a rift had developed between the two Barca forwards, something Messi was quick to deny.

With the Catalan club due to face Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, Guardiola was keen to play down the rumour in his press conference.

“It is impossible to argue with David, both he and Leo are good people,” Guardiola said.

“He is very generous on the pitch and in his personal life, it’s impossible to fall out with David. Leo has been clear, David is clear, there is nothing (to the rumours).”

The trainer then addressed questions on his reportedly fractious relationship with the club’s former striker, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who is set to release an explosive autobiography detailing a breakdown in communication between himself and Guardiola.

“(I have) nothing to say,” the Spaniard said. “There was nothing personal. I just want to thank him for the year he gave us where we reached 99 points (in La Liga).”

“He played, he proved his quality and helped us reach the semi-finals of the Champions League. There is nothing more to say.”