<p>BARCELONA, Spain — The Spanish league said Tuesday it will investigate a gathering of Barcelona players at Lionel Messi’s home.</p>
<p>Local authorities are also expected to check if any COVID-19 protocols were broken during the gathering on Monday.</p>
<p>Spanish media said Messi invited his teammates and their partners for a barbecue to help the squad bond ahead of a decisive Spanish league match next weekend.</p>
<p>Barcelona can move into first place on Saturday if it beats league leader Atlético Madrid at the Camp Nou Stadium.</p>
<p>The barbecue came a day after Barcelona defeated Valencia 3-2 to stay within two points of Atlético with four rounds to go.</p>
<p>Local media said players could be heard chanting “campeones (champions)” from inside Messi’s house.</p>
<p>Barcelona did not immediately comment.</p>
<p>Sanctions against players and the club are possible but not likely to be severe.</p>
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