Former Barcelona winger Malcom has recalled the encouraging message Lionel Messi gave him before the Brazilian scored against Real Madrid in the 2019 Copa del Rey semi-final, revealing how the Argentine superstar helped him prepare for the crucial El Clasico encounter.

According to a report by Barca Universal on Friday, November 13, 2026, Malcom shared the memory during an interview on Abu Dhabi Sports TV’s 90 Minutes. The Brazilian explained that Messi personally informed him he would feature against Barcelona’s fierce rivals and encouraged him to be ready for the opportunity.

"I remember that before the Clasico against Real Madrid he said to me: ‘We're counting on you. Get ready because you're going to play’," Malcom said.

The former Bordeaux attacker eventually justified Messi’s confidence by scoring in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final at Camp Nou in February 2019. The goal proved important in helping Barcelona recover after falling behind early in the contest.

Messi was absent from the starting lineup because of a thigh problem, giving Real Madrid an opportunity to take advantage of Barcelona’s missing superstar. The visitors opened the scoring after just six minutes, with Lucas Vazquez converting from close range following Karim Benzema’s pass.

Barcelona subsequently searched for an equaliser, with Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba among those threatening the Madrid defence. Malcom then stepped forward in the second half, making the most of an opportunity inside the penalty area.

The Brazilian collected a loose ball in the Real Madrid box, controlled it with a touch and produced an accurate finish beyond goalkeeper Keylor Navas. His effort brought Barcelona level and ensured the first leg ended in a 1-1 draw.

Barcelona delivered a much stronger performance in the return fixture at the Santiago Bernabeu, defeating Real Madrid 3-0 to book their place in the Copa del Rey final. Although the Catalan side eventually lost 2-1 to Valencia in the final, Malcom’s contribution against their biggest rivals remained a memorable moment from his brief spell at the club.

The winger, who spent only one season at Barcelona, also explained that Messi’s encouragement extended beyond that particular match. According to Malcom, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner regularly offered support and motivation to team-mates, helping them maintain confidence even when they faced difficulties.

"He was always there to encourage me, motivate me and give me confidence, even when I was tired or had to compete with other players for a spot," he added.

Malcom’s account provides another example of Messi’s influence within the Barcelona dressing room. Beyond his performances on the pitch, the Argentine was also someone who helped fellow players feel supported and prepared to take advantage of opportunities.

The Brazilian further revealed that Messi tried to persuade him to remain at Barcelona when he was considering leaving during the summer of 2019. At the time, Russian club Zenit Saint Petersburg had expressed interest and eventually completed his transfer for approximately €40 million in August that year.

According to Malcom, Messi personally approached him in an attempt to change his decision. Nevertheless, the winger ultimately chose to leave Camp Nou, although he has since acknowledged that departing Barcelona might not have been the right decision.

His recollections highlight the personal encouragement he received from Messi during their time together, particularly before one of the most memorable matches of his Barcelona career.