Ronald Koeman is not asking for any more from Lionel Messi, saying his Barcelona team-mates must improve.
Lionel Messi had a hand in all three goals as Barcelona cruised past Elche to fuel hope they can reel in LaLiga leaders Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona may sit fourth in LaLiga, eight points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, but Ronald Koeman has not given up hope.
Frenkie de Jong scored for the third time in six games for Barcelona in Sunday's 2-0 win over Elche and earned plaudits from Ronald Koeman.
Lionel Messi's absence prompted Frenkie de Jong to step up with a goal and an assist in Barcelona's 2-0 victory at Elche.
Lionel Messi was unavailable once more but Frenkie de Jong's scored one and made another to see Barcelona past Elche.
Ronald Koeman appears to be turning around Barcelona's season, but he is not prepared to compromise his tough-talking approach to coaching.
Lionel Messi akan terlepas perlawanan LaLiga di antara Barcelona dan Elche malam esok selepas gagal dalam rayuannya daripada digantung dua perlawanan.
A simulation provided by Stats Perform AI puts Atletico Madrid firmly at the top of LaLiga at the end of the season.
Barcelona will be without Lionel Messi against Elche after he failed to have his suspension overturned.