Rosario: Gerardo Martino believes a recommendation from fellow Argentine Lionel Messi was behind his surprise appointment as Barcelona coach on Monday.

“The details of how the situation developed I don’t know but I have no doubt Jorge (Messi’s father) and Lionel had some influence,” Martino told a news conference in Rosario.

“I’m sure they were asked their opinion and we’ve come to this outcome,” added the 50-year-old, who comes from Rosario like the Messis.

Martino added: “I was expecting some job proposals and I can’t say I was expecting this one. The situation was unexpected and of course it took me by surprise. It’s yet to sink in,” added Martino.

“This is a very important job opportunity which came about due to a very unfortunate occurrence (Tito Vilanova’s illness),” Martino said.

“I’m very grateful they considered me, my staff and my work. The quality of the Barcelona squad, with Leo, is something any coach desires.

“I’m sure in our day-to-day work we’ll find ways to support Messi so he continues to be the extraordinary player he is.”

Martino, who will travel to Barcelona on Thursday, said he hoped to be up to the high demands of coaching one of the world's best club sides.

“We’ll try to fit in quickly... Barcelona is an institution that has a way of life, a footballing development. We are the ones who are going to step into that world.”

One of Martino’s staff is Adrian Coria, the man credited with discovering and coaching Messi from the age of 11 to 13 at Newell’s.