Why Barcelona Should Bench Lionel Messi Until He Is 100 Percent Cured From the Thigh Injury

Everyone knows that something is wrong with Lionel Messi. He scored one goal in October and has been nearly invisible throughout the start of 2013-14. Now the forward has admitted that his poor play is attributed to his lack of physical fitness.

"Games against Espanyol are always very difficult," said a message from Messi, according to ESPN. "I am still not at 100 percent physically, but I am sure that with the run of games I will pick up rhythm."

This confirms suspicions that the superstar was still being bothered by a lingering thigh injury. He missed a lot of time at the start of the season due to this injury; it dates back to last season. Many expected Messi to rest over the summer to recover from the injury, but he opted to play throughout the break to support his charity. It was an honorable act to be sure, but it is hurting him right now.

So what should Barcelona do? Logic would dictate that the team let its superstar rest until he is 100 percent. Afterall, this is the reason that Neymar was acquired. He is supposed to be the Robin to Messi's Batman. If the Argentinean falters, then the Brazilian is expected to provide the lift. And he has.

But Neymar has not been the only one to elevate his game this season. Alexis Sanchez has been terrific and Cesc Fabregas is staking his claim to be a consistent starting position in the league. This alone should give Coach Gerardo Martino enough incentive to rest Messi. Messi is likely opposed to this plan but his safety is at stake and that must be first and foremost for the club. The team is in first place without an effective Messi and has not struggled much throughout the season. Imagine when Messi is in game shape? Barcelona could be unstoppable.