It's always all about Lionel Messi at Barcelona. It has been since the ethereal teenager imposed himself on the British consciousness in a Champions League tie with Chelsea nine years ago. On Tuesday he takes on Manchester City in the Etihad and the questions surrounding him are frenzied as ever. Should he have made a late-night visit to a casino with Gerard Pique and Cesc Fabregas 24 hours after the 1-0 defeat by Malaga? Why did he play so badly against Malaga? What is his relationship with manager Luis Enrique? (Non-existent, say sources at Barcelona). And, most importantly, will the ongoing tax inquiry into his financial affairs by the Spanish authorities cause him to up and leave the club with which he has been synonymous?
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Barcelona face Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday
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Lionel Messi is looking to bounce back after a poor display against Malaga
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The Argentine's future has been the subject of speculation for months
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Messi is involved in a £3m tax case and has spoken about leaving the club
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Barca have lacked a coherent strategy since losing the late Tito Vilanova
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Manchester City vs Barcelona: How do the two teams compare?
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But one defeat is enough these days to allow onlookers to pick open old wounds and, short of winning the league or the Champions League, those close to the club don't expect @placeholder to survive the summer.