This is the first time since 2011 that Messi will be missing a UEFA Champions League Match despite being fit. Messi has not been included in the 20 man squad to battle with Inter Milan tonight at San Siro
According to coach Valverde his decision was influenced by the forthcoming fixtures which include weekend game with Real Sociedad and El Clasico with Real Madrid coming up upper week
Barcelona has already qualified for the round of 16 with 11 points while Milan is second in the table with 7 points, so even Barcelona losses against them they will still be on top of the table
Milan needs to win this match by all means in order to be ahead of their rival Dortmund who have the same 7 points with them. A lost against Barcelona will send them back home.
Messi is resting this time for a match that victory is not so important