Barcelona manager Luis Enrique has pointed out that Lionel Messi’s retirement from international football could benefit Barcelona. 

The Argentine superstar announced he was calling it quits for this country after suffering a painful Copa America final defeat to Chile earlier this month, the star’s fourth defeat in an international final.

Enrique, however, believes the 29-year-old’s decision will allow him more breaks over the course of the season.

‘Speaking as Barcelona’s head coach, it wouldn’t be bad for us,’ Luis Enrique said, reports Goal. ‘It means fewer games and trips away for Messi. I’m not saying it’s a perfect situation but he could have more time to rest.’

Enrique has also admitted, however, that he hopes Messi does return to play for the Albiceleste.

‘He said that after a difficult time, after losing a final. So he still needs to confirm whether or not he part of the international team, Enrique added.

‘As a football fan, I would like to keep watching him play for Argentina. But as Barcleona’s head coach…. Let’s see what happens.’