Barcelona's Messi: "Being away from the game has made me think"

Barcelona star Lionel Messi is eager to return to action this weekend, revealing that the suspension of football "has made me think".

Barcelona go to Mallorca on Saturday as LaLiga season resumes

LaLiga was halted in March due to the coronavirus pandemic, with Barça two points clear of Real Madrid at the top of the table after 27 games.

Spain's top flight returned on Thursday behind closed doors as Sevilla defeated Real Betis 2-0, with the leaders set to resume their campaign at Real Mallorca on Saturday.

Messi: "I just want to play. And to play our game is a gift"

Messi has described football as "a gift" and is happy at the prospect of playing once more after three months of uncertainty.

"Being away from the game has made me think," he said in an Adidas video. "I feel like any other player. I just want to play. And to play our game is a gift. To be supported by so many, even more so.

"To be able to inspire others, and be inspired. And maybe the greatest gift of all: to create joy for others. So, now the game has returned, I'm ready for its gift again."

LaLiga top scorer Messi chasing 11th LaLiga title of his career

Messi is the top scorer in LaLiga this season, with 19 goals from 22 appearances, five clear of nearest challenger Karim Benzema.

The 32-year-old also has the most assists, with 12, four ahead of Real Sociedad forward Portu.

The Argentina star is bidding to win his 11th league title with Barça and his 25th club trophy in total.