That also deprives fans of the chance to see him line up against his illustrious Argentina team-mate Lionel Messi, who has shown signs of rediscovering his best after an injury-hit season.
Manuel Pellegrini: "Without doubt it is very difficult (to stop) Messi because he is a top player of the world.
"He does a lot of different things. He has speed, good control, a good finish.
"He is a good player but I don't think Barcelona is Messi. You can have Messi tight and other players will decide the game.
"It is important to play as a team defending and attacking."
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