Messi had a quiet night on the pitch - with Luke Shaw’s own goal enough to secure victory for the away side.
His clash with Smalling was a huge talking point in the Champions League tie, but the former Fulham man is adamant that the coming together was unintentional.
“Yeah, we spoke after,” Smalling said. “I didn’t realise at the time actually that I caught him like that.
“But, after the game we just had a brief chat, shook and hands and he said ‘yeah, it was an accident’.
Lionel Messi was happy to have a photo with Romelu Lukaku's mother on Wednesday (Image: GETTY/Twitter @Barcelona_M60)
Lionel Messi wasn't at his best by Barcelona sealed victory (Image: GETTY)
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Adolphine Lukaku was delighted to meet the Barcelona forward after full time (Image: Twitter @Barcelona_M60)
“[I spoke to] Suarez after as well. We had a good tussle and he just shook my hand after and we said good luck.
“It’s nice when you can have that battle on the pitch and then there’s full respect after game.
“Ultimately you’re just trying to do your best and enjoy the game.”
United boss Solskjaer has admitted that a comeback now would be even more impressive than their round of 16 win over PSG, but he hasn’t given up hope just yet.
A clash with Chris Smalling left Lionel Messi on the ground (Image: GETTY)
Argentina captain Messi was fine to continue playing (Image: GETTY)
Lionel Messi clash with Smalling was 'nothing' says Mourinho
He said: ”There were pluses and negatives.
“We started sloppy and a bit nervous. After their goal we settled and played well.
"We had very good individual performances in midfield. At times it felt like a proper United team - the crowd were behind us, we got out wide and got crosses in.
"We didn't start great, but it was a great goal and movement from Messi and Suarez but they're fortunate it comes off Luke Shaw.
“It's a blow but we settled well. We're still in this tie."