Messi's mate Roberto reveals FC Barcelona players' reaction after his departure

Lionel Messi's former teammate Sergio Roberto recently revealed the mood in the locker room after their "greatest player" departed from FC Barcelona.

Messi's departure from FC Barcelona was a heartbreaking event for many fans. It was also a difficult occasion for the Argentine, who sobbed at his final press conference. Furthermore, Messi's departure had a significant influence on his colleagues.

Messi, who played for the Catalan Giants for 20 years, made an unforgettable stamp on the club's history. He became Barcelona's all-time top goalscorer with 672 goals and led the team to unprecedented success, including two trebles. His departure, however, changed everything, and for Roberto, it was like "starting from scratch."

The Spanish defender was recently interviewed by Sport. He spoke candidly about what it was like for him and his teammates to see Lionel Messi's leaving. The 31-year-old began by expressing his respect for La Pulga.

“Leo Messi is the best player in the history of the club and the best player in history,” said Sergi Roberto. “You always expect to see him the next day in training and suddenly he’s not there.” The Spaniard further added, “It’s as if the club is starting from scratch. He is part of all the best things that have happened to Barça in recent years.”

Roberto's disclosure illustrates how Messi's departure signified the end of an era and prompted the squad to choose a new course. Recently, Barcelona's Ilkay Gundogan expressed similar comments on the need for patience in the aftermath of Lionel Messi's departure.