Chelsea players were left irritated by Antonio Conte's warm embrace with Lionel Messi after their 4-1 aggregate loss to Barcelona.
The Argentine was the difference over the course of the two matches, especially at the Camp Nou on Wednesday where he scored twice and assisted Ousmane Dembele's first goal for the Catalan giants.
In the former Juventus coach's post-match press conference, he labelled the Argentine international as a 'super, super, super, top player', however it was the way the Italian sought Messi out on the pitch which irked his players.
It's an image that has gone round the world numerous times over by Thursday morning, at the final whistle he stormed onto the playing surface and embraced the iconic forward, all whilst his team trudged off down the tunnel, dejected after such a defeat.
Such an embrace was obviously cordial and Conte was even picture smiling and chatting with the player who had just condemned Chelsea to a disappointing Champions League exit.
To put this into some context, there is a feeling amongst Chelsea supporters and the British press that no matter what happens the 2017/18 season will be Conte's last at Stamford Bridge.
His relationship with the club's hierarchy has become strained and he's been overly critical of the ability within his squad with regards to being able to challenge for the European crown.
Whilst the coach quickly swatted away any questions over his intentions by talking to the La Masia graduate, there is a concern that such an image could further the small divide between players and coach at the London club.
"I think that when you have the opportunity to give a compliment to a player like Messi, you have to do it," he explained in his press conference.
"Messi showed tonight with how well he played that he is the best in the world."
Abdelfattah47
104
Conte, "It's right to recognise a super, super, super top player. We are talking about a player who in every season is able to score 60 goals. The greatest footballer at the moment." * I guess it's not wrong at all, but again, give credit where it's due.
SriLanka6524918
72
The problem is neither for players or fans. but surely for media and press. They are the people try to create unwanted issues between players, manager, club and fans. Nothing wrong in praising a player like Messi. Dear media! pls stop creating stories for ur benefit. Conte should remian with us and he is very capable. It took very long for manu to recover deom the collapse after the Fergusons departure. But conte recovered CFC in his first season after Jose's exit.
ngwanah
45
noting wrong when u acknowledged greatness. I don't support Barcelona but boy..mess is a phenomenal player..call him with the best adjective that u can use to describe how good he is. Remember they said aliens will come some day on earth. Messi has come..what a talent...
nowtry
45
I love Conte man. Such a cool person and a great manager as well! If i were Chelsea i would put my best effort to make him stay at the club. I think he's the second best coach in Premier League after Pep.