It’s claimed that the Barcelona bus left for the airport while Messi was still at Anfield.
The attacker was held behind by anti-doping testers and had to make alternative arrangements to catch up with his team-mates.
It’s the second year in a row that Barcelona have let a three-goal lead slip in the Champions League.
Last season, the Catalan giants took a 4-1 lead to Roma in the quarter-finals.
Lionel Messi: Barcelona LEAVE star at Anfield after Liverpool defeat (Image: GETTY)
Lionel Messi: Barcelona LEAVE star at Anfield after Liverpool defeat (Image: GETTY)
But a 3-0 win for the Serie A side in the second leg knocked Ernesto Valverde’s side out.
And the boss admits it hurts having suffered another painful defeat at Anfield.
"They [Liverpoo] were better and we have to accept it," he said.
"The scoreline was 4-0 and when that's the case there are no excuses.
Invalid email
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