Lionel Messi: 'I don't have any kind of relationship with Pep Guardiola now'

Master and pupil go head-to-head when Barcelona meet Bayern Munich

Pep Guardiola was more concerned about the pressure heaping on his shoulders than inspiring Leo Messi to greater deeds (EPA)

Lionel Messi has stated that he no longer has "any kind" of relationship with this former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola.

The Spanish coach, now in charge of Bayern Munich, will return to the Nou Camp for the first time since leaving the club in 2012.

Messi developed into the best player in the world under Guardiola's guidance, winning three consecutive Ballon d'Or awards as he scored 211 goals in 219 games under the Spaniard.

But speaking ahead of the game, the 27-year-old admitted that are barely in contact.

Pep Guardiola is fearful of what an in-form Barcelona might do to Bayern (Getty Images)

"We had a great time when Pep was here. We won a lot of titles and I grew a lot – that was the time when I grew most as a footballer," Messi told the media.

"We had a fantastic relationship when he was here. I have seen him a few times since he left but we don’t have any kind of relationship now.

"Guardiola knows us, he knows us all well. We were lucky enough to win a lot of titles with him. Based on what Guardiola meant to the club in his time as coach, I think he will get a good welcome.

"He gave a lot to the club and he is from here, but I think the fans will support the club and want us to win the game."