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'Guardiola has never wanted to hurt Barcelona by taking Messi' - Father of Man City boss doubts deal for Argentine

Valenti Guardiola admits that his son would welcome an iconic figure to the Etihad Stadium, but he is not expecting a move to be made

Pep Guardiola's father, Valenti, admits that the Manchester City manager would welcome Lionel Messi to the Etihad Stadium, but doubts a move will be made as his son has never wanted to "hurt" those at Barcelona.

A decorated Catalan coach has seen an approach for the six-time Ballon d'Or winner mooted as an all-time great continues to run his current contract down towards free agency.

City are one of the few clubs in world football that could offer Messi the financial and sporting ambition he craves, but Guardiola has always maintained that he wants to see the iconic Argentine remain at Barca and see out the most remarkable of careers as a one-club man.