Braithwaite Refutes Reports He’s Demanded For Messi’s Jersey Number
Martin Braithwaite has denied reports circulating among the media that he has demanded for Lionel Messi’s jersey number should the Argentine international leave Barcelona.
Messi is bent on leaving the club he has represented for the past two decades and has even refused to report for pre-season medical tests and training.
As the six-time Ballon d’or winner’s scuffle with Barcelona continues, it has been reported among the Spanish media that Braithwaite is keen on inheriting Messi’s iconic number 10 jersey if he departs the club.
But the Denmark international has labelled those rumors ‘disrespectful’ and claims there is no truth in the reportage.
"What do people think themselves? Of course I did not go to the club and ask for Messi's number," the former Middlesbrough striker told Danish newspaper BT.
"It would be so disrespectful. I really feel that the people who come up with these kinds of stories lack respect for a lot of people.
"A lot of things are being written about Messi and I do not know what is happening. I can only say that he is a great player and person to be team-mates with.
"It goes without saying what he can do as a football player when he shows it every weekend. He is one of the best players ever and, of course, it will be a loss for the club if he disappears.
"I hope it does not happen, but I do not know what is happening, so I do not want to comment on something I do not know anything about."
Braithwaite joined Barcelona from Leganes as an emergency signing back in February and his only goal in 11 appearances was assisted by Messi in a 4-0 win over Real Mallorca in June.
Braithwaite currently dons the number 19 jersey, which Messi wore in his formative years at the club.
