Ernesto Valverde had nothing but praise for Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta on his official unveiling as Barcelona manager on Thursday.

The 53-year-old former Athletic Bilbao boss admitted 'it will be a joy to coach Messi' as he was presented to the media, before saying that he hopes the Argentine phenomenon, 29, will improve even more under his guidance.

Amid ongoing uncertainty about playmaker Iniesta's future at the Nou Camp, Valverde also dismissed the idea that he would want the 33-year-old to move on.

'The biggest challenge for me will be to coach a great team full of great players,' Valverde said at a press conference.

'It will be a joy to coach Messi, a unique experience to coach the best player I have ever seen. 

'I know that sometimes it looks like he has reached the absolute peak of his powers and then the next day he improves even more. 

'My plan is to help him to keep improving and to enjoy working with him. 

'Barcelona and the club's philosophy are renowned all over the world. I have to adapt and to deepen that characteristic style that Barca have.

'I can count on great players like Leo, Iniesta and more. I consider Andres to be a very important player for the team and for the club.

'I want to help the players improve day after day and create a team spirit that we can rely on at the bad moments and the good moments. 

'We want to bring joy to the fans all around the world and of course to win silverware, that is the main objective.'