Lionel Messi has hit back at Barcelona chief Eric Abidal after accusations regarding Ernesto Valverde's dismissal.

Abidal suggested that some of the team's players forced Valverde's dismissal with their attitude and that they weren't working hard enough, Messi took to social media to respond to the Frenchman.

The Argentine forward hit back at Abidal and stressed that both players and board are responsible for the team's situation.

"I honestly do not like doing these things, but I think everyone has to be responsible for their tasks and take care of their decisions," posted Messi with a screenshot of an article from Sport about Abidal's comments.

"The players are responsible for what happens on the pitch and we are also the first to recognise when we're not doing well.

"Those responsible for the sports management must also assume their responsibilities and, above all, take ownership of the decisions they make.

"Finally, I think that when talking about players, names should be given.

"Because if not then we are tarred with comments that are said and are not true."

Abidal originally told Sport: "Many players were not satisfied or weren't working hard and there was also an internal communication issue," he noted.

"The coach and dressing room relationship has always been good, but there are things that I can smell as a former player.

"I told the club what I thought and they had to make a decision."