Rivaldo was pleased to see Barcelona ease to a 4-1 win over Dynamo Kiev without Lionel Messi in their side, with the Blaugrana legend warning that the Argentine icon may soon be gone for good.
Ronald Koeman has given a talismanic part of his plans regular rests over recent weeks. That approach is intended to keep the six-time Ballon d’Or winner fresh and firing for when he is needed most.
Messi’s absence is also offering Barca an insight into what life may look like if the all-time great were to walk away from Camp Nou.