Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Barcelona.

Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Barcelona, as indicated by his career achievements with both teams.

Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Barcelona.

Lionel Messi is considered the number one football player in the world due to his exceptional skills, records, and achievements, including seven FIFA Ballon d’Or awards and numerous domestic and international titles.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the number one football player in the world due to his outstanding skills, achievements, and influence on the sport, as well as his enhanced marketability through charitable involvement and social initiatives.

Lionel Messi is considered the number one football player in the world due to his outstanding career achievements, including numerous awards and titles, and his consistent exceptional performance over the years.

Lionel Messi is regarded as the number one football player globally, thanks to his outstanding abilities, achievements, and impact on the sport.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the number one football player in the world due to his outstanding skills, achievements, and influence on the sport, as evident from his exceptional performance in the World Cup final and praise from fellow players.

Lionel Messi is 35 years old.

Lionel Messi is currently 35 years old.

Lionel Messi is currently 35 years old.

Lionel Messi is currently 35 years old.

Lionel Messi is 35 years old, according to the source document.

Lionel Messi has won the Golden Ball award seven times.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the best football player in the world, with a record 8 Golden Ball awards, demonstrating his outstanding skills and achievements in the sport.

Lionel Messi has won 7 Golden Ball awards.

Lionel Messi has won seven Golden Ball awards, also known as Ballon D’Or trophies, which is a record in the sport.

Lionel Messi is considered the number one football player in the world due to his achievements and influence on the sport, including being the all-time leader in Ballons d'Or wins.

Lionel Messi has won seven FIFA Ballon d'Or awards, a record-breaking number that showcases his exceptional skills and achievements in the football world.

Lionel Messi has won a record seven Ballon d'Or awards, solidifying his position as one of the greatest football players of all time.

Lionel Messi has won seven Ballon d'Or awards, the most prestigious individual honor in soccer.

Lionel Messi has won seven Ballon d'Or awards, which is a testament to his consistent greatness and dominance in the world of soccer.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the best football player in the world, with numerous awards and accolades, including at least seven Ballon d'Or awards.

Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d'Or award seven times.

Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d'Or award 7 times.

Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d'Or award seven times, making him the record holder for the most Ballon d'Or trophies won by a player.

Lionel Messi is the all-time leader in Ballon d'Or wins, having won the award seven times, which is a key factor in his consideration as the number one football player in the world.

Lionel Messi won the World Cup with Argentina, a major trophy he had dreamed of for nearly 16 years and five World Cups.

Lionel Messi has won major trophies with Argentina, including the Copa America.

Lionel Messi won the World Cup with Argentina, a major trophy that showcases his exceptional skills and dedication to the sport.

Lionel Messi has won major trophies with Argentina, including the 2021 Copa America and the World Cup, solidifying his position as one of the greatest players in history.

Lionel Messi won the 2021 Copa America with Argentina.

Lionel Messi has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentina national team, achieving numerous titles and awards including four Champions Leagues and a record seven Ballon D’Or trophies.

Lionel Messi has played for several teams, including FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentina national team, and is widely considered one of the greatest football players of all time.

Lionel Messi is a renowned football player who has played for several teams, including FC Barcelona and the Argentina national team, and has had a significant impact on the sport.

Lionel Messi has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentina national team, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time.

Lionel Messi is a renowned football player who has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentina national team, and has achieved great success, including winning the Champions League with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi was born on June 24, 1987.

Lionel Messi won four Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi won four Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi won 4 Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi won 4 Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi won 4 Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi has won four UEFA Champions League titles, a testament to his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport.

Lionel Messi has won four Champions Leagues, a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication to the sport.

Lionel Messi has won four Champions League titles, showcasing his enormous success in Europe.

Lionel Messi has won four Champions Leagues, which is fewer than Ronaldo's five European Cups.

Lionel Messi has won four Champions Leagues, which is part of his impressive collection of trophies and achievements.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest football player of all time, known for his exceptional skills, achievements, and influence on the sport, making him an inspiring example for young players like my son.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest fútbolista of all time due to his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability, as well as his numerous career achievements and influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest fútbolista of all time due to his exceptional skills, records, and achievements, which have allowed him to dominate the sport and lead his team to numerous titles.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest fútbolista of all time due to his outstanding skills, achievements, and influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest fútbolista of all time due to his outstanding skills and career achievements, making him a significant influence on the sport, and is widely regarded as the best player in history by many, including former Spanish star Xavi.

Lionel Messi has consistently delivered outstanding performances throughout his career, earning him numerous awards and records, and making him widely considered the number one football player in the world.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the number one football player in the world due to his consistent delivery of outstanding performances, exceptional skills, and significant influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the number one football player in the world due to his consistent delivery of outstanding performances, exceptional skills, and numerous career achievements.

Lionel Messi has consistently delivered outstanding performances throughout his career, achieving remarkable success at both the club and international levels.

Lionel Messi's career is marked by outstanding performances, including his impressive showings in the World Cup, where he has consistently demonstrated his ability to score crucial goals and lead his team to victory.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest soccer player of all time due to his outstanding career achievements, distinctive playing style, and profound impact on the sport.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest soccer player of all time due to his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability, as well as his outstanding career achievements and influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest soccer player of all time due to his exceptional skills, records, and achievements, including his goal-scoring ability, vision, and leadership on the field.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest soccer player of all time due to his impressive skills, achievements, and records, making him an inspiring example for young soccer players.

Lionel Messi is often considered the greatest soccer player of all time due to his outstanding skills and career achievements, making a significant difference in the sport, as acknowledged by former players and coaches.

"Lionel Messi has achieved success at both the club and international levels, winning numerous individual awards and leading Barcelona to multiple domestic and international titles."

Lionel Messi has achieved success at both club and international levels.

Lionel Messi has achieved success at both club and international levels, winning numerous titles and awards with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Argentina.

Lionel Messi has achieved success at both club and international levels, establishing himself as one of the greatest football players of all time.

Lionel Messi has achieved success at both club and international levels, but has struggled to win international trophies for his country, Argentina.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest player of all time due to his exceptional skills and numerous career achievements, including leading Argentina to World Cup victory.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the greatest player of all time due to his outstanding career achievements, unique playing style, and influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the greatest player of all time due to his outstanding skills and achievements in soccer.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the greatest player of all time due to his outstanding skills and achievements.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest player of all time due to his exceptional skills and career achievements.

Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Barcelona.

Title:

Content: Angry Xavi: Ronaldo the best in history?
No comparison with Missy.
imago images
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández, the former star of the team, was outraged by the statements of Cristiano Ronaldo, the current Manchester United striker, and the former Real Madrid star, who has previously stated that he is the greatest in the history of football.
Shortly after winning the Ballon d ’ Or for the fifth time, the then Real Madrid player told France Football: “I don ’ t see anyone better than me, no player does things I can ’ t do myself, but I see things others can ’ t. ”
“No player is more complete than me, I ’ m the best player in history, in good and bad moments. ”
How did he respond to Ronaldo ’ s comments?
This statement seemed like Ronaldo was outperforming himself, as his immense self-confidence has always been the deciding factor in the biggest and best moments of his career, but it was an incredible claim, and it seems to have infuriated Barcelona icon Xavi.
The former Spanish star spent more than a decade playing alongside Lionel Messi, sharing a dressing room with him in Barcelona,   and they fought together against Ronaldo when he was a player in Madrid.
Speaking to Radio Tut Costa (Radio Catalunya), Xavi said: "Messi is doing more things than Cristiano."
"If Cristiano considers himself the best player in history, that's fine, but Messi is the best in history.
"I imagine all the managers in the world will make plans to stop Messi."
"Messi is the difference maker when we were facing a team with a defensive block that we always try to give the ball to him in the empty spaces to unbalance them.
“Messi is the player who makes the biggest difference in the world, it ’ s more than obvious. ”
It is worth mentioning that Lionel Messi left Barcelona after the club failed to renew his contract, to join Paris Saint-Germain in a free transfer deal in the summer of 2021.

Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Barcelona, as indicated by his career achievements with both teams.

Title:

Content: Lionel Messi, Argentina

The number one player on this list is obvious: the world’s biggest star, the game’s best talent for over 15 years now, and top three among the all-time greats. Messi’s dazzling skill for Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain has earned four Champions Leagues, 11 domestic league titles across Spain and France, and a record seven Ballon D’Or trophies — soccer’s most famous player of the year award.

Last year, he finally lifted silverware with Argentina, delivering the country’s record-tying 15th Copa América. It was the nation’s first continental crown since 1993, and Messi was runner-up in 2007, 2015 and 2016. The last two came after a runner-up finish at the 2014 World Cup.

At age 35, Messi doesn’t have the speed he used to, but he has as much skill and guile as ever. And he has a stacked squad of Argentina teammates that complement him and bring their own firepower: Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan), Ángel Di María (Juventus), Rodrigo De Paul (Atlético Madrid), and a crown-jewel young prospect in Julián Álvarez (Manchester City).

They’re fired up, they’re hungry, and they’re on a 35-game winning streak dating back to 2019. If Argentina win it all, the triumph will be celebrated across the globe, and Messi will be enshrined above Pelé and Diego Maradona as the greatest of all time.

» READ MORE: Lionel Messi's Argentina beat Andre Blake's Jamaica in a World Cup warmup game

Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal

He’s Messi’s longtime foil, among fans worldwide and for years in Spain. When Ronaldo was at Real Madrid and Messi was at Barcelona, the world stopped for two hours.

The debate was also fueled by their national team feats. Ronaldo has five European Cups to Messi’s four, and for five years he had the national team trophy that Messi didn’t: the 2016 European Championship.

As with any great sports rivalry, fans of one of the players often disdain the other. But Ronaldo, it must be said, is rather more disdainable. Yes, he’s got an outrageous career goals total, with 701 club goals in 949 games and 117 national team goals in 191 caps. And he’s got a body that seems to have been sculpted by the Greek gods, not just the soccer gods.

He’s also got an ego to match, and it rubs a lot of people the wrong way. He isn’t afraid to throw a public tantrum, as he did just a few days ago about his lack of playing time at Manchester United. And he stood accused for over a decade of committing a rape in 2009 in Las Vegas. A lawsuit about it was dismissed this past June.

Ronaldo is 37 now. This will be his last World Cup. Will he go out with a swan song, or with another combustion?

» READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo played against the Union with Real Madrid in 2011

Kylian Mbappé, France

France’s 2018 World Cup title launched a then-19-year-old Mbappé to superstardom. He’s still there, as the flagship player for his country and its biggest club, Paris Saint-Germain. In fact, he’s such a big deal that French president Emmanuel Macron reportedly asked Mbappé to turn down a move to Real Madrid this summer.

We’ll never know if it truly helped, because PSG -- which is owned by Qatari royals -- had the money to keep Mbappé. The club also gave Mbappé a lot of power off the field, and he has used it to build his business interests.

Now comes a new challenge: lifting his country to a second straight World Cup. There hasn’t been a repeat men’s champion since Pelé's Brazil in 1958 and 1962. France has the talent to do it, but also has locker-room friction that Mbappé has been part of. And history brings an omen: Les Bleus crashed out in 2002 after winning it all in 1998.

Sadio Mané, Senegal

Only three African teams in men’s World Cup history have reached the quarterfinals: Cameroon in 1990, Senegal in 2002, and Ghana in 2010. This year’s Senegal squad has the talent to match them, and potentially go a step farther.

Nine months after winning the Africa Cup of Nations, the Lions of Teranga arrive in Qatar full of talent and optimism. Chelsea goalkeeper Édouard Mendy and centerback Kalidou Koulibaly are defensive rocks, while Bayern Munich’s Mané leads the attack.

Mané suffered a right fibula injury playing for Bayern on Nov. 8. He was named to the World Cup team, but he’s racing the clock to be fit. Whether he makes it is one of the tournament’s biggest on-field questions this week.

Bukayo Saka, England

England has its best chance in decades to win its first World Cup since 1966, and Saka is a big reason why. The 21-year-old from London is an electric winger for the Three Lions and Arsenal, and has one of both teams’ most engaging personalities.

Gavi, Spain

Just 18 years old, the Barcelona midfielder has jumped up the line of the world’s top young prospects. This year, he won two of Europe’s top awards for players under age 21: France Football’s Kopa Trophy (the same publication runs the Ballon D’Or), and the Golden Boy trophy organized by newspapers across the continent.

Gavi is already a regular player for his club and has 12 senior Spain caps. This World Cup could be his global breakout.

Jamal Musiala, Germany

Another of this World Cup’s big-time youngsters will face Gavi in the group stage. Musiala, 19, has rocketed to prominence with Bayern Munich and Germany this year. In just the half-season so far with Bayern, he has 12 goals and 10 assists in 22 games.

Not much is expected in Qatar of a German squad whose mix of ages isn’t quite right. But if Musiala takes off, he could take Die Mannschaft on a big run.

Kevin De Bruyne, Belgium

If you watch the English Premier League, you know that De Bruyne is the midfield maestro for powerhouse Manchester City. There are few more technically-gifted players on the planet, especially in his part of the field.

Four years ago, he helped the Red Devils to fourth place, the nation’s best World Cup finish. This year’s team has lots of talent, but De Bruyne is one of 11 players among the squad of 26 who’s age 30 or older. That’s a warning sign that a repeat run might not happen.

Vinícius Jr.

We’ve saved the best national team for last, or at least the world’s most famous one. No team has more World Cups than Brazil’s five, and the Seleçao are a big betting favorite to make it six this year. They have immense talent at every position, from defense up to the front line.

If you were expecting to see Neymar’s name here, that’s understandable. He’s Brazil’s biggest star of all, But Vinícius is a player you want to know about. He’s been ticketed for stardom since his childhood days in Rio de Janeiro, and he has lived up to the hype at Real Madrid.

Now age 22, he has 10 goals and 5 assists in 22 games this season, after scoring the winner in last season’s Champions League final. Many of his plays have gone straight onto highlight reels, accompanied by great dancing celebrations.

Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Barcelona.

Title:

Content: A community.
Follow the latest news on social issues and cultural events in the Arab world and the world.
Find out about the latest community news, humanitarian stories, and video reports about community life.
The growth mindset...
How Messi trained his mind to become the "best in history"
© AFP 2022 / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV Lionel Messi
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Argentine football legend Lionel Messi ’ s victory at the World Cup in Qatar is seen as the most important step in his career and strengthens his position with most fans as one of the greatest players in history, or even the best of them all.
Leo Messi, 35, has a full list of football titles, both at the team level including the local, continental and international championships, and at the team level including the Copa America, the Finalissima Cup and finally the most prestigious and expensive tournament, the World Cup.
World Cup 2022
An exciting scene repeated in the World Cup of Qatar, his heroes Maradona and Messi
And, of course, at the individual level, there are several records engraved in his name, in addition to the awards, including "Balloon Dor" or the best player in the world award granted by the magazine "France Football" annually, and Messi received 7 times as the most crowned player.
But Messi ’ s distinction by the international press and the public with the nickname “GOAT ” or“ Goat ”, which means “Greatest Player of All Time ”, was never the goal of the Argentine star, but his focus was on something much simpler.
Messi told France Football magazine last year: “To be the best or not, it doesn ’ t change anything for me.
I never tried to be that. ”
Instead of dreaming of football stardom as a child, Leo focused on achieving smaller goals, completing one after another before moving on to the next goal.
I fought for my dreams.
At first, you were supposed to be a professional player, then I tried to outdo myself and achieve new goals every year.
Lionel Messi
The Argentine football star
This approach is familiar, reminiscent of psychologist Carol Dweck ’ s theory of a “growth mindset, ” which posits that talent is only a starting point.
Dweck wrote in her 2015 study “Growth ”:
“In a growth mindset, people believe that their core abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. ”
© AFP 2022 This set of file images shows then-Argentine Paris Barcelona striker Lionel Messi reacting while winning the Ballon d'Or (top, left to right)
This set of file images shows then-Argentine Paris Barcelona striker Lionel Messi reacting while winning the Ballon d'Or (top, left to right)
There are non-sporting champions and success story holders who have formed their own version of a “growth mindset, ” such as billionaire Mark Cuban and Hollywood star Will Smith.
Studies show that students who acquired a “growth mindset ” by teachers, were able to improve their test scores more than their peers over time.
Of course, Messi has always been a talented athlete, even as a small child and a growth hormone deficient person at the age of 11, but he constantly insists that a strong work ethic was the key to his continued success.
Messi breaks a world record outside of football
Leo spends long days training to keep improving on the pitch.
Although he has long been recognized as a world star and a historical legend, it took him nearly 16 years and five World Cups to finally get the prize he had always dreamed of.
Messi made a huge income during his 18-year career.
He is the best paid athlete in the world for 2022, making almost $130 million this year, according to Forbes.
That includes a basic salary of about $75 million from his club, Paris Saint-Germain, and $55 million from other off-field income.
In other words, being the best is also very profitable.
© AFP 2022 / FRANCK FIFELionel Messi raises the World Cup at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar
Lionel Messi lifts World Cup at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar
In his interview with France Football, Messi stressed that being among the game ’ s greats at all was never his original goal, but rather the result of working hard to amplify innate talent over many years.
"For me, just being able to be among the best players in the world is more than enough.
It ’ s something I didn ’ t dare imagine or dream about. ”
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Lionel Messi is considered the number one football player in the world due to his exceptional skills, records, and achievements, including seven FIFA Ballon d’Or awards and numerous domestic and international titles.

Title:

Content: What Was Lionel Messi Known For?

News

What Was Lionel Messi Known For?

Lionel Messi, the Argentine football superstar, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Known for his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability, Messi has left an indelible mark on the world of football. From his early days at FC Barcelona to his international success with the Argentine national team, Messi’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi showed immense talent from a young age. He joined the Barcelona youth academy, La Masia, at the age of 13, where he honed his skills and developed his unique playing style. Messi made his first-team debut for Barcelona in 2004, at the age of 17, and quickly became a key player for the club.

Playing Style and Skills
Messi is known for his exceptional dribbling ability, close ball control, and lightning-fast speed. His low center of gravity allows him to change direction quickly, leaving defenders in his wake. His vision and passing accuracy are also remarkable, enabling him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. However, it is his goal-scoring prowess that truly sets him apart. Messi has an incredible ability to find the back of the net, often with stunning precision and creativity.

Records and Achievements
Throughout his career, Messi has shattered numerous records and achieved countless milestones. He has won numerous individual awards, including the prestigious FIFA Ballon d’Or, which he has claimed a record-breaking seven times. Messi has also led Barcelona to numerous domestic and international titles, including ten La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League titles.

FAQ

Q: What is Messi’s playing position?
A: Messi primarily plays as a forward or attacking midfielder, but his versatility allows him to excel in various positions on the field.

Q: Has Messi ever won the FIFA World Cup?
A: Despite his immense success at the club level, Messi has yet to win the FIFA World Cup with the Argentine national team. However, he has led Argentina to the finals in 2014 and has won several other international tournaments, including the Copa America.

Q: How many goals has Messi scored in his career?
A: As of 2021, Messi has scored over 700 goals in official matches for both club and country.

In conclusion, Lionel Messi is known for his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability. His playing style, records, and achievements have solidified his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Whether it is his mesmerizing dribbles or his ability to find the back of the net, Messi’s impact on the sport will be remembered for generations to come.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the number one football player in the world due to his outstanding skills, achievements, and influence on the sport, as well as his enhanced marketability through charitable involvement and social initiatives.

Title:

Content: Lionel Messi has emerged as the most marketable athlete in the world, surpassing basketball icon LeBron James, according to the latest rankings from SportsPro's 50 Most Marketable (50MM) list, reported by GOAL. Michael Long, editorial director at SportsPro, shared insights on Messi's rise to the top during an episode of the Footballco Business Podcast. “It's a really interesting dynamic to see Messi in America. A match made in marketing heaven.”

With Messi leading the pack and an impressive 22 footballers making the cut, Long discussed the factors that contributed to Messi's dominance in the rankings. He highlighted the unique blend of sports and entertainment culture present in football, particularly in leagues like Major League Soccer (MLS), where Messi now plies his trade with Inter Miami.

Long emphasized the significance of Messi's transition to MLS, noting that it places him in a new realm where he intersects with cultural icons from various spheres, including sports and entertainment. This shift, Long suggests, could potentially elevate Messi to the status of a commercial powerhouse akin to legendary footballer David Beckham.

However, Messi's position at the top of the 50MM list is not solely attributed to his on-field performances or celebrity status. Long pointed out that Messi's active involvement in charitable causes and support for social and environmental initiatives played a crucial role in enhancing his marketability.

The top ten Most Marketable Athletes:

  • 1. Lionel Messi
  • 2. LeBron James
  • 3. Alex Morgan
  • 4. Giannis Antetokounmpo
  • 5. Megan Rapinoe
  • 6. Mikaela Shiffrin
  • 7. Lewis Hamilton
  • 8. Simone Biles
  • 9. Kylian Mbappe
  • 10. Max Verstappen

The Argentine superstar's public support for causes such as UNICEF and environmental sustainability has resonated with fans and brands alike, contributing to his appeal beyond the realm of sports. Long underscored the importance of athletes aligning themselves with meaningful causes, as it has become a key consideration for brands when choosing endorsement partners.

In essence, Messi's ascent to the pinnacle of sports marketing is a testament to his multifaceted appeal, combining athletic excellence with social consciousness to solidify his position as a global icon both on and off the pitch.

Watch Messi live. Every club, every match, including playoffs. Subscribe now to MLS Season Pass!

Lionel Messi is considered the number one football player in the world due to his outstanding career achievements, including numerous awards and titles, and his consistent exceptional performance over the years.

Lionel Messi is regarded as the number one football player globally, thanks to his outstanding abilities, achievements, and impact on the sport.

Title:

Content: Connect with us

Sport

He can do everything – Taylor names world’s best footballer

Published

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Inter Miami star Robert Taylor has named Lionel Messi as the best footballer in the world.

This was following Inter Miami’s 4-0 League Cup win over Atlanta United at the DRV PNK Stadium on Tuesday.

The Herons secured their second win in two games since Messi joined from PSG and played his first game last week.

In his first game for the American side, Messi scored a last minute winner as Inter Miami defeated Cruz Azul 2-1.

Messi bagged a brace inside 22 minutes on Tuesday, while Taylor scored twice on either side of the break.

“I think we found spaces in behind pretty well. We had good balance whenever Leo had the ball, creates a lot of space for everyone else,” Taylor said after the game.

“He can truly do everything. He makes the right decision 100 percent of the time. Most of the time, he finds a teammate in space.

“He’s the best player in the world, this is what he does regularly. It’s a dream come true to play with him.”

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the number one football player in the world due to his outstanding skills, achievements, and influence on the sport, as evident from his exceptional performance in the World Cup final and praise from fellow players.

Title:

Content: Alexis Mac Allister hailed ‘humble’ Lionel Messi as the best player in history after playing a key supporting role to the icon in Argentina’s World Cup triumph.

In arguably the greatest final in the tournament’s history, Messi’s side won 4-2 on penalties after a 3-3 draw with France.

Messi opened the scoring from the spot and put Lionel Scaloni’s men ahead in extra-time, before slotting home in the shoot-out.

Argentina would have coasted to victory but for Messi’s Paris Saint-Germain team-mate Kylian Mbappe hitting a hat-trick. After captaining Lionel Scaloni’s men to victory, the 35-year-old was labelled ‘the best in history…no doubt about it’ by midfielder Rodrigo De Paul.

Asked what made the difference in the final, Brighton’s Mac Allister replied: ‘It is always Messi, it is always Messi. He is fantastic.

‘I cannot explain in words what I am feeling now, I think this team gave everything on the pitch so I’m really happy for the result.’

Mac Allister has shone in the finals and played a major part in teeing up Angel Di Maria’s goal as Argentina went in 2-0 up at half-time. They were pinned back by a 97-second Mbappe double to force extra-time and Mac Allister was replaced just before the Frenchman completed his hat-trick to cancel out Messi’s extra-time goal.

With Messi now adding football’s biggest prize to his trophy cabinet, he has – in Mac Allister’s eyes – sealed his place as the very best.

‘I think he is the best player in the world, the best player of all time,’ he said. ‘He is amazing, he is a really nice guy, he is humble so he has everything to be the best player in history so it is amazing to share a dressing room with him and I’m very grateful.’

MORE : Brighton chief plans to keep hold of Alexis Mac Allister as transfer valuation emerges

MORE : We’ll take it! England win trophy at the World Cup after Argentina crowned champions

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

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Lionel Messi is 35 years old.

Title:

Content: Are Roger Federer and Lionel Messi Similar? Rafael Nadal Ridicules Comparisons

Atharva Upasani
|Published September 18, 2023

In an old interview via the Rafael Nadal Fans page on YouTube, tennis great Rafael Nadal was asked about the comparisons between his rival, Roger Federer and soccer superstar, Lionel Messi. Nadal rubbished them categorically with an answer which sounds good objectively, but polarised opinion in the sports world. It also must have perhaps come from a place of Rafael Nadal preferring Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi.

The comparisons have gained significance again recently after Federer took to TIME Magazine to pen a heartfelt tribute to Leo Messi. Federer’s words, laden with praise, resonated with sports enthusiasts across the globe. In his tribute, Federer highlighted the profound impact Messi has had on soccer given the huge burden of expectations on his shoulder each time he enters the pitch.

Rafael Nadal on not believing in Federer-Messi comparisons

Rafael Nadal and Cristiano Ronaldo have often been considered similar in the sense of their relentlessness and ability to dig deep in adversity even if it means not looking great while doing it. Their graft and hard work is evident and visible. On the other hand, Roger Federer and Lionel Messi are often compared for their elegance and effortless ease, making their sports look way more easier to play than they actually are.

But Rafael Nadal was quick to brush off any such suggestions in an interview with Marca. He was quoted as saying –

“There is no comparison possible. They are two completely different sports and the characteristics of Messi are not those of Federer nor those of Cristiano are mine.

In fact, this year, Rafael Nadal had reiterated that he still prefers Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi. His views angered Lionel Messi fans, who in turn called Roger Federer better than him.

Roger Federer pays touching tribute to Lionel Messi

In his touching tribute to the Argentine soccer superstar, Roger Federer, who knows a thing or two about winning, acknowledged his longevity and consistency. Messi has been dominating world soccer for well over 15 years now and has multiple Ballon D’or trophies to show for it. Federer hailed Messi’s ability to carry the hopes of an entire nation on his shoulder for so many years and still deliver clutch performances.

“What stands out to me about Messi, 35, is his consistent greatness over so many years. This is so difficult to achieve, and then maintain. My career has just come to an end and I have now realize how much weight we athletes carry. For a football player like Messi, that weight likely feels more massive, as he represents both a world-renowned club and a very passionate country.”

Federer also touched upon Argentina’s World Cup victory, describing it as a magnificent moment in sports history, witnessed by millions as jubilant fans took to the streets of Buenos Aires to celebrate. The Swiss legend then reminisced about his own sources of inspiration from Argentine soccer, citing Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta as his childhood favorites. Now, he believes that Messi can inspire future generations, much as Maradona and Batistuta had inspired him.

“Argentina’s World Cup victory was magnificent. Millions of fans’ taking to the streets of Buenos Aires to celebrate was an amazing moment in sports, witnessed around the world. Growing up, Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta were my favorite Argentine players. I was lucky enough to meet both of them. Now Messi can inspire future generations. I can only hope we get to see his unique creativity and artistry for a little bit longer. You may miss something incredible from the man of the moment. Thank you, Leo.”

Currently, Lionel Messi is plying his trade in Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami, a move that garnered significant attention and shifted the soccer landscape in America to greater heights.

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About the author

Atharva Upasani

A creative story teller with attention to detail and experience of working in sports industry, Atharva has over 3 years of experience in content writing. Being a Rafael Nadal fan himself, Atharva has included Rafas' work ethic and winning mentality in various aspects of his life. Atharva has completed his masters in sports journalism from Sheffield Hallam University and has expertise in tennis as well as other sports.

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Lionel Messi is currently 35 years old.

Lionel Messi is currently 35 years old.

Title:

Content: Argentina's "ball king" Messi led Argentina to win the third championship trophy in team history at the 2022 Qatar World Cup yesterday (18) night, officially promoted to "ball god", personal career "last dance" to a perfect end.
In addition to the world-famous game, Messi ’ s noble character and heartwarming deeds are often praised by fans. Let ’ s take a look at how many fans the greatest football star of our time has!
The Last Dance!
Messi leads Argentina with 30,000 hits in one night
The 35-year-old Messi welcomed the last dance of the World Cup this year, the past four times in the World Cup, he has a brilliant football career, this year's competition has once again set a lot of historical records, will be eight years ago to miss the Hercules Cup success to take home, and even become the first player in history to win the World Cup golden ball twice.
Relative to the attention and splendour of the stadium, Messi is also respected and recognized by everyone because of his "personality". Messi also said in the past interview that "I would like to be a good person more than to become the world's best football player". Cheers for him.
According to the public opinion analysis system of KEYPO Big Data Key Engine, during the World Cup tournament in the past month alone, Macy ’ s personal online voice volume accumulated 137,282 records; and 32,504 records were recorded before and after the World Cup Championship (12 / 18-12 / 19 morning), indicating that the attention of fans around the world is quite high!
"King" Messi 's heartwarming deeds 1 _ Win the ball first to greet the enemy team
When it comes to Messi's heartwarming deeds, the first thing that fans think of must be his attitude of respecting and treating each teammate seriously.
And not only the teammates of the team, carefully observe every winning game in Argentina, when the others cheer in a group and celebrate the victory, Messi will always run to the opponent's door to greet him, or comfort the other side crying players, showing a full royal demeanor, not only to respect the opponent, but also to win the admiration of other players and fans, so many fans shouted "No wonder so many people." I don ’ t like Macy, it doesn ’ t make sense. ”
"King" Messi 's heartwarming deeds 2 _ Silently pay off the total arrears, national team travel expenses
In addition to the excellent performance on the field, the private Messi is also a quiet and low-key super warm man.
Comprehensive media reports pointed out that the Argentine domestic football federation had been facing financial difficulties and had not been able to pay staff salaries for several months.
One employee wrote a private letter to Macy for help.
Unexpectedly, he did not say anything, directly pay all the arrears, and at the same time promised to bear the future salaries of the staff paid for the country, and provide all support for the Argentine Football Association.
In the same year, he also shouldered all the travel expenses of the national team for the Copa América, so that all the players and staff of the team can play for the country without worry.
For the benevolent and unobtrusive low-key attitude, fans praise "the king must: the ball (skills + character), Messi is one of them", "Messi this is really good, humble and low-key but full of strength", "he is really warm and kind of good people", "how can not love him".
"Ball King" Messi 's heartwarming deeds 3 ｜ "Pet powder action" super love 5-year-old boy, 100-year-old people are crazy for him
As a famous "warm man" in football, Messi's "pet powder action" is also innumerable, and it is often a topic that everyone likes to talk about.
For example, he once sponsored a poor Afghan five-year-old boy who could only make his own Messi jersey from a blue-and-white garbage bag to watch the game and gave the little iron powder a signed shirt.
In addition, there is a 100-year-old Spanish grandfather who is also a diehard fan of Messi, not only supporting his every game, but also recording every ball he kicked.
Messi learned of this, personally recorded a video to express gratitude to Grandpa, "know that you write down each of my goals is really too surprised, I would like to give you a big hug, and sincerely thank you for what you do, I wish you all well."
After watching so many of Messi ’ s heartwarming deeds, have you also been pink by the Argentinian king who has written many brilliant records?
Next time the 2026 World Cup, let ’ s cheer him up in front of the screen!
Analysis Description
Analysis Period: The analysis period of this article is from November 19, 2022 to December 19, 2022.
Source of information:
"KEYPO Big Data Key Engine" public sentiment analysis system has a large amount of data, using artificial intelligence as a semantic analysis tool data collection scope: accumulated more than 3 billion Internet databases, the content of which covers news media, social platforms, discussion forums, blogs, map reviews and other websites.
Research methods:
The system observes tens of thousands of website channels, including major news channels, social platforms, discussion forums and blogs, and analyzes the relevant text of the discussion of "Messi", and investigates the "Internet sound" (Note 1) as the basis of this analysis.
* Note 1 Network volume: Through the public opinion analysis system of KEYPO Big Data Key Engine, the number of articles mentioned in community discussions and news reports is calculated. The higher the volume, the hotter the discussion, the higher the visibility.
# Lionel Messi # World Cup # Warm Man # Ball King

Lionel Messi is currently 35 years old.

Title:

Content: The evolution of Argentina, Messi and Scaloni: From pariahs to heroes

Located in the Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve in Puerto Madero, Paseo de la Gloria (Walk of Glory) is a tourist attraction that was created in Argentina’s capital ahead of hosting the 2018 Youth Olympic Games.

Visitors and locals walk the airy promenade and pay homage to the country’s most accomplished sportsmen and women: heroes of tennis, field hockey, basketball, golf, boxing and horse racing are enshrined in bronze and immortalized, just a stone’s throw from the Rio de la Plata.

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Among the most recognizable statues are those of former NBA great Emanuel Ginobili and tennis icon Gabriela Sabatini. But the most popular statue is that of Lionel Messi.

Created by Argentine sculptor Carlos Benavidez, it captures Messi’s signature running style — the moment when he bursts past an opponent on the dribble.

It was erected in 2016 shortly after the now 35-year-old retired temporarily from Argentina’s national team. A defeat to Germany in the 2014 World Cup final was followed by two consecutive Copa America final losses to Chile in 2015 and 2016.

Both the defeats by Chile were agonising penalty shootouts, including Messi sailing his penalty over the bar at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium in the 2016 match. Immediately after that game, Messi shocked the world when he announced his retirement from international football.

“It’s incredible, really. It just won’t happen for us,” a downtrodden Messi told reporters from the mixed zone. “Apparently this is how it’s going to be. Today it happened to us again, and again in penalties.”

Asked what was going through his head and whether it was too early to think about CONMEBOL’s World Cup qualifiers for Russia 2018, Messi muttered: “I was thinking about this in the dressing room. That’s it. The national team is over for me. It’s been four finals. Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be for me. I couldn’t do it. That’s it.”

Messi had already won five Ballon d’Ors and eight La Liga titles with Barcelona. He had lifted four Champions League trophies and had enormous success in Europe. For over a decade, Messi has been considered the world’s best player, but success in Argentina’s famed No 10 shirt has eluded him.

He was criticized in Argentina for failing to perform for his country when it mattered most. Messi left his boyhood town of Rosario for La Masia in Barcelona at the age of 13 and became a legend in Spain, but that was later used by Argentina fans and pundits to question whether he truly embodied the rugged spirit of an Argentine footballer.

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It was that type of patriotic envy that was debated relentlessly on nightly television programs, in cafes and in the press. Barcelona’s football had finessed his game and softened his mentality, they said, and that was evidenced by the aforementioned finals losses.

Messi was revered around the world, but he had become a polarizing figure in Argentina — a “foreigner” who was crippled by the pressure of representing Argentina and a player who was burdened by the shadow of Diego Maradona.

As a result, Messi’s statue on the Walk of Glory became a frequent target for vandals. The statue’s torso was first stolen and then replaced, only to see it destroyed again in December of 2017.

A man runs past the statue of Lionel Messi after it was vandalized in 2017 (Photo: Mariano Sanchez/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Perhaps the thieves wanted a piece of Messi memorabilia for themselves. However, the symbolism that a toppled statue of Messi represented at that time could not be ignored.

Messi and his Argentina team-mates had become pariahs in their own country. Glory had slipped between their fingers far too many times to forgive.

The 2018 World Cup in Russia increased the toxicity around the Argentina national team. Drawn with Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria, they struggled to grasp manager Jorge Sampaoli’s Bielsa-inspired tactics and only narrowly advanced from the group stage.

A 1-1 draw with minnows Iceland was followed by a 3-0 thrashing by Croatia, the eventual runners up. Messi scored his only goal of the tournament against Nigeria to secure a place in the round of 16. They were promptly eliminated 4-3 by France. Sampaoli’s short stint ended less than a month later.

Reports of a rift between Sampaoli and Messi magnified the national team’s debacle in Russia. The general consensus in Argentina was that it was time to move on from a generation of players who had failed to win a title and instead incorporate new players into the national team — players who were unburdened by past failures.

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Captain Javier Mascherano, Gonzalo Higuain, Lucas Biglia, Ever Banega, Marcos Rojo, Enzo Perez, and Gabriel Mercado would not play again for Argentina.

There would also be a new manager tasked with leading Argentina at the 2019 and 2020 Copa America tournaments and the 2022 World Cup qualifiers. The list of potential successors to Sampaoli included Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone and former Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino.

Instead, Sampaoli’s assistant Lionel Scaloni was hired as interim manager. A former Argentina defender who played at the 2006 World Cup, Scaloni coached Argentina’s Under-20 men’s side before joining Sampaoli’s staff. He had two priorities when he accepted the caretaker position.

Lionel Scaloni shortly after taking over as Argentina manager in 2018 (Photo: Marcelo Endelli via Getty Images)

The first was to add Argentina Under-17 national team coach Pablo Aimar to his staff. Aimar is a respected tactician in Argentina and a staunch defender of football that suits creative players. The former Argentina, River Plate and Valencia midfielder was also Messi’s childhood hero. After Aimar accepted the role alongside Scaloni, the two coaches picked up the phone and called Messi.

“After (the World Cup) in Russia, Pablo and I called (Messi) and told him that we would coach the team on an interim basis,” Scaloni told ESPN in September. “Messi was a team captain with Mascherano. It was best that he heard it directly from us.”

Messi’s brief retirement in 2016 still lingered in the consciousness of every Argentinian. From the outside, his commitment to the national team was in question after Argentina crashed out in Russia. And considering the coaching candidates who had been rumored to take over for Sampaoli, Scaloni’s initial appointment underwhelmed Argentina supporters and journalists.

Aimar was joined on Scaloni’s staff by former World Cup veteran defenders Roberto Ayala and Walter Samuel. Yet, their inexperience as coaches overshadowed their careers as elite European-based footballers. Supporters clamored for an evolution of the national team, but when it began in earnest, it was difficult for Argentinians to accept.

Nonetheless, there was a detail that would prove crucial to Argentina’s future success under Scaloni. It wasn’t tactical, although Scaloni would gradually fine-tune Argentina’s style of play with Messi as less of a focal point.

What allowed Messi to feel comfortable again in the Argentina shirt was the fact he and the manager shared a bond. Scaloni had never coached in Argentina before joining the national team.

After playing two seasons in Argentina with Newell’s Old Boys and Estudiantes de la Plata in the late 1990s, Scaloni left for Europe and didn’t return as a player. He played for Deportivo La Coruna, Lazio, West Ham United, Racing Santander and briefly for Atalanta. Scaloni maintains a residence in Mallorca and he was an assistant under Sampaoli at Sevilla.

Scaloni wasn’t “made in Argentina” and that was criticized by traditionalists. But that commonality with Messi has strengthened their relationship. Messi is more comfortable than he has ever been in Argentina’s blue and white, due in large part to Scaloni and the players the manager has chosen as Messi’s supporting cast.

“When we took over officially, (Messi) told us that he’d come back, that he was committed and that if we called him, he’d play,” Scaloni said. “It was very natural. He shows a love for the national team which is evident when you see him play. The will to win for him is because of what he shows us on the pitch.”

Argentina lost 2-0 to hosts Brazil in the semi-final of the 2019 Copa America. They had started the tournament poorly with a 2-0 loss to Colombia which sounded the alarms in Argentina, as Scaloni’s tactics looked like a work in progress.

The side was experienced but Scaloni incorporated younger players like Lautaro Martinez, Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes and Giovani Lo Celso. The holdovers from the 2018 World Cup team included Sergio Aguero, Angel Di Maria, Messi, Nicolas Otamendi and goalkeeper Franco Armani. Scaloni was beginning to build a core group.

He would need to impress in friendlies versus Chile, Mexico and Germany that same year. Argentina drew 0-0 and 2-2 with Chile and Germany, respectively, then routed Mexico 4-0. There was a workman-like identity to this new-look Argentina. There were persistent calls from pundits for Scaloni to be innovative with his tactics. Nevertheless, confidence and camaraderie were growing within the group.

Scaloni and the players had their sights on a chance to end the national team’s 28-year trophy drought. Argentina were set to co-host the 2020 Copa America with Colombia, which would have been a first for South American football.

That historic milestone never occurred. COVID-19 concerns in Argentina plus political unrest in Colombia forced CONMEBOL to strip the countries of hosting duties, postpone the tournament a year, and move it to Brazil.

The apprehension regarding Scaloni’s inexperience persisted as the tournament began, but the side showed a steely mentality and grew as the competition progressed. Messi was in inspired form, but new stars began to emerge.

Martinez looked the part as an elite No 9. De Paul became the axis in Argentina’s midfield with clean distribution and tireless running. Central defenders Cristian Romero and Otamendi provided a solid defensive wall in front of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who became a hero after he saved three penalties in an emotional semi-final shootout win over Colombia.

Argentina’s dream was alive, but Brazil had looked like a juggernaut in the group stage and knockout rounds. It seemed more likely that history would repeat itself at the Maracana, the same venue where Germany defeated Argentina in the World Cup final in 2014. A fifth consecutive finals loss for Messi would further damage his reputation at the international level.

The tables turned, however, as Argentina earned a hard-fought 1-0 win that shocked the Brazilians.

Lionel Messi celebrates winning the Copa America against Brazil in 2021 (Photo: Gustavo Pagano via Getty Images)

Messi had finally won the title that he so desperately needed, and desired. An elated Messi told reporters after the match that he had dreamed of this moment, and that for years, his family had suffered each loss alongside him. The family’s summer holidays began with a melancholy mood. “This time it’ll be different,” he said.

And it was different. The streets of Buenos Aires erupted with joy. The entire country embraced Scaloni, and his previously unproven group of players, as national treasures. Argentina’s first cup win since 1993 was hailed as an improbable feat against unprecedented odds.

“We’re still not conscious of the fact that we’re champions, of what we’ve just accomplished,” Messi told reporters from the Maracana. “But I think that this match will be remembered as something historic, not only because we became South American champions, but because we beat Brazil in Brazil.”

During that celebratory moment, Messi urged his team-mates and the country to take advantage of the momentum that had been created. This was the future of the national team, Messi said, which felt like a preemptive passing of the torch. The high of winning a Copa America carried through during the South American World Cup qualifiers as they cruised undefeated towards Qatar.

The sentiment towards the national team had officially changed.

“The support from the fans makes you feel more comfortable on the pitch,” Aguero told TyC Sports from Doha days before the World Cup draw in April. “Before we won the Copa America, when I played, (fans) were virtually silent during our matches. Now it’s like a party. A player falls down and everybody starts laughing.”

Argentina’s home qualifiers had the energy of a rock concert. Messi was the front man whose skills, goals and assists delighted the thousands of singing fans. Argentina had fallen back in love with him and their national team.

After Argentina sealed their World Cup qualification on March 25 with a 3-0 win over Venezuela, the sellout crowd at Boca Juniors’ Estadio La Bombonera stayed long after the final whistle to honor the players and staff that would compete for the ultimate prize in Qatar.

Amid blaring trumpets and chanting fans, Messi spoke about the magnitude of the moment and his own transformation.

“Lately here in Argentina, this is what we expected. We wouldn’t expect anything less from the fans,” said Messi from the pitch. “It’s been this way over this period of time, the unity between the national team and our people.”

Messi continued.

“I’ve been happy here even before we won the Copa (America). We have a wonderful group and the fans continue to show how much they care about me. I’m grateful. I experience it every time I come to Argentina, and more so after winning that trophy.”

During the September FIFA window, Argentina played before screaming fans in Miami and New Jersey in wins over Honduras and Jamaica. They were friendly matches, but the energy inside both stadiums, like in Buenos Aires during World Cup qualifying, made the players feel like rock stars. “We’re so happy with the connection that we have with our fans,” said De Paul from Miami.

Argentina’s last loss was that 2019 Copa America semi-final against Brazil. They’ll begin the World Cup in Group C against Saudi Arabia riding a 36-game unbeaten streak. Scaloni went from unsung interim manager to a pop culture star in Argentina. Fans on social media created a nickname, La Scaloneta, which is best described as an unstoppable hype train that’s destined for glory.

La Scaloneta has become such a big part of Argentina’s recent sporting culture, that fans often refer to the manager by his nickname. Scaloni isn’t keen about his newfound fame, but it’s unavoidable at this point.

In November several fans spotted the manager at Buenos Aires’ Ezeiza International Airport and shouted “Scaloneta!” as they took selfies with him. A smiling Scaloni told a nearby reporter, “I’m Scaloni. I don’t like it, but there’s no turning back.”

Four years ago in Russia, Argentina’s national team was at a point of no return. Messi’s legacy was in jeopardy and winning a World Cup seemed impossible for him. Now, Argentina are among the favorites to win the World Cup in Qatar.

And after years of disappointment and destructive criticism, the team is beloved again. But even deeply rooted love can be broken. The world will soon find out if Argentina’s storybook rise will have a feelgood ending.

(Top photo: Gustavo Pagano via Getty Images)

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Felipe Cardenas is a staff writer for The Athletic who covers MLS, the Mexican National Team, media and international soccer. Follow Felipe on Twitter @FelipeCar

Lionel Messi is 35 years old, according to the source document.

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NPR podcast tells the story behind Lionel Messi's journey to his final World Cup

A MARTÍNEZ, HOST:

When soccer's World Cup kicks off, one of the sport's biggest stars will have his last chance to win a title that has so far eluded him. Lionel Messi is often spoken of as perhaps the game's greatest player ever, but he's never lifted the famous gold trophy for his country, Argentina. It is a constant source of criticism for the man nicknamed La Pulga Atomico, the atomic flea, due to his small stature and the way he buzzes past defenders. His determination to swat aside those complaints might be all the greater when you consider that the 35-year-old's identity as an Argentino has been questioned because he left the country as a teenager to begin his ascent to stardom in Spain. That's the inspiration behind the new NPR podcast La última copa - The Last Cup - which is out now, hosted by Jasmine Garsd.

All right. So, Jasmine, what made you want to make this podcast about Messi and this journey to his final World Cup?

JASMINE GARSD, BYLINE: Well, you know, like Lionel Messi, I am from Argentina, and I'm very soccer obsessed. Soccer was a part of my life growing up. And I became just really fascinated with his relationship with his home country. And even though, you know, Lionel Messi is a huge superstar, there were some themes in his personal story that I definitely identified. There were echoes of things I had heard people in other immigrant communities talk about. It was, like, this story about someone who leaves home really young, spends a lot of their life wondering what could have happened, yearning, you know, in the nostalgia, wondering if you can ever go back and then navigating that relationship when you do go back, which is very complicated.

MARTÍNEZ: Well, now, you wanted to make this podcast about Messi in both English and Spanish. Why was that important to you?

GARSD: You know, I had been thinking a lot about Lionel Messi. And I got into an Uber, and it was a Dominican driver, and he started talking to me in Espanol, and he started telling me about how he was getting older, and people back home wanted him to come back, but his life was here in New York. And as he was telling me this, I was like, whoa, I should do this story. You know, there's, like, a common element. There's a common theme. And every time I would hear this story, it would be in Espanol. And so I just - we really wanted to do it justice by telling it in both languages.

MARTÍNEZ: Now, the first three episodes are already out. So let's get a flavor from Episode 1.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #1: Lionel Messi - no, no, no. No, no, no. It's got away. It's got away.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED NPR BROADCAST)

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #1: The greatest achievement you can have as a footballer is winning international trophies for your country. It just is a bigger legend than winning Champions League.

GARSD: The one thing Messi has never been able to achieve is to win a World Cup for his home country, Argentina.

(SOUNDBITE OF MONTAGE)

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #2: He's missed it. It's been saved.

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #3: But there was a target area, and Messi misplaced it.

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #4: Messi, even now he can't get his goal.

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #5: And he doesn't pick up the prize he really wanted.

GARSD: For most of his career, when Leo Messi put on that Argentina soccer jersey, things got really bad really quick.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #6: He missed it.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #7: ...Lionel Messi put his shirt over his face. He's now crouched down with his head on the field.

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #2: (Through interpreter) He was sitting on the floor, curled up in a ball, shaking, crying inconsolably.

(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)

GARSD: Over the years, every time I would watch Messi play a big game for Argentina, I'd get really anxious, not just because I'm also from Argentina, and I hated watching our team lose; it was a personal anxiety about what I knew happened after every game. A lot of people back home would get angry at him.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #3: (Speaking Spanish).

GARSD: His critics would say that he only cared enough to play well for the European clubs, that he'd left Argentina too young, and now he was no longer Argentine.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #4: (Speaking Spanish).

GARSD: And the reason this rhetoric filled me with dread is that I too had to leave Argentina when I was a teenager, and it wasn't really by choice.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED REPORTER: The national crisis has seen protesters taking to the streets, angry at the government's inability to end what is now three years of recession.

(SOUNDBITE OF PROTEST)

GARSD: As happens to many immigrants, as time passed I would feel further and further away from home, and I was haunted by questions like, can I ever go back? If I do, will I be a foreigner in my own country?

(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)

GARSD: I know some people are going to say, Jasmine, chill out. Messi is an international superstar. He's got a great life. He's very wealthy. Don't try and make me feel bad for him. But one of the reasons I love soccer is because it's about so much more than a ball on a field with 22 players. And in this podcast, we're going to talk a lot about how soccer is a way to understand the world - class, race, immigration, colonialism.

MARTÍNEZ: That's an excerpt from Episode 1 of the new NPR podcast La última copa - The Last Cup - and host Jasmine Garsd is still with us. Now, Jasmine, Messi has been voted the best player in the world a number of times. He's rewritten soccer's history books. But Diego Maradona is a god because in 1986, he pretty much single-handedly led Argentina to World Cup glory.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #8: ...Maradona. They're appealing for offside. The ball came back off the foot of Steve Hodge. And Maradona gives Argentina the lead.

MARTÍNEZ: So, Jasmine, if Lionel Messi never lifts the cup over his head, where will he rank in (speaking Spanish) - in the hearts of your countrymen?

GARSD: (Laughter) I think he's come around to being very beloved, and people have, like, a certain kind of, like, tenderness for him because they understand what he went through. I think the Diego Maradona represents something completely different to Argentina. I mean, he's this kid from the slums who, like, was really on the outskirts of society in terms of class and race, and he overcame all kinds of challenges to become this hero. But I do think that, you know, Leo Messi has come around and that people have finally started to embrace him. Yeah?

MARTÍNEZ: But if he never wins a cup, will he be as beloved?

GARSD: Don't say that, A. Don't invoke it.

(LAUGHTER)

MARTÍNEZ: I know. I know. We'll see. His last chance is coming up. Jasmine Garsd is the host La última copa - The Last Cup - out now wherever you get your podcasts. Jasmine, thanks a lot.

GARSD: Thank you so much. This was fun. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.

A Martínez
A Martínez is one of the hosts of Morning Edition and Up First. He came to NPR in 2021 and is based out of NPR West.
Jasmine Garsd
Jasmine Garsd is an Argentine-American journalist living in New York. She is currently NPR's Criminal Justice correspondent and the host of The Last Cup. She started her career as the co-host of Alt.Latino, an NPR show about Latin music. Throughout her reporting career she's focused extensively on women's issues and immigrant communities in America. She's currently writing a book of stories about women she's met throughout her travels.

Lionel Messi has won the Golden Ball award seven times.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the best football player in the world, with a record 8 Golden Ball awards, demonstrating his outstanding skills and achievements in the sport.

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Content: My team
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Araujo answered why Messi is the best in the world
Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo considers ex-striker Lionel Messi the best in the world.
“I miss everything related to Messi.
We drank mate together when he was at Barca.
He is the best footballer in the world - decides the outcome of matches.
Leo is admired.
The captain and the standard, ” said the Uruguayan.
• Messi has 8 Golden Balls.
He is a student of Barcelona.
Messi has a contract with Inter Miami until 2025.
Source: Marca
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Lionel Messi has won 7 Golden Ball awards.

Lionel Messi has won seven Golden Ball awards, also known as Ballon D’Or trophies, which is a record in the sport.

Lionel Messi is considered the number one football player in the world due to his achievements and influence on the sport, including being the all-time leader in Ballons d'Or wins.

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Content: Getty Images

Lionel Messi and MLS: Argentina must dominate Copa America to bolster league’s perception

When Lionel Messi stood on the stage in front of thousands of adoring fans who had waited in the pouring rain at DRV PNK Stadium, it felt like the start of something. There he was - 5-6 of footballing genius, the GOAT, the all-time leader in Ballons d'Or wins, less than nine months removed from lifting the World Cup - being presented to America.

In a sense, this was the culmination of Major League Soccer's dream. The immigration of superstars started with David Beckham in 2007, and had steadily chugged along in the 16 years since. But not until Messi was handed the pink jersey for the first time did it feel like MLS had really made a splash. This was not only a landmark moment for the league, but also legitimacy for the wider world. Messi gave MLS the co-sign, the ultimate street cred it needed.

A year on, and the league has changed immensely - not in competition necessarily, but certainly in notoriety. Apple paid $2.5 billion (£2bn) to secure TV rights for league matches, and directed some of that money to give Messi's salary a bump. Jersey sales have skyrocketed, while global interest has demonstrably spiked.

But perception is a difficult thing to negotiate. For all of the positives that Messi has brought to MLS - magical left foot, money, marketing appeal, mania among fans - this is still a competition looked down upon with scorn by many in the footballing populous.

Good thing, then, that the Copa America arrives on American shores this week. Messi will represent Argentina, and in doing so, become the de facto ambassador for MLS - a litmus test for the quality of play in the league. Pressure doesn't really exist for Messi, but MLS certainly needs the legendary Argentine to perform, if only to prove that they are a quality home for Messi - the greatest to ever do it - to kick a ball in his twilight years.

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Lionel Messi has won seven FIFA Ballon d'Or awards, a record-breaking number that showcases his exceptional skills and achievements in the football world.

Lionel Messi has won a record seven Ballon d'Or awards, solidifying his position as one of the greatest football players of all time.

Lionel Messi has won seven Ballon d'Or awards, the most prestigious individual honor in soccer.

Lionel Messi has won seven Ballon d'Or awards, which is a testament to his consistent greatness and dominance in the world of soccer.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the best football player in the world, with numerous awards and accolades, including at least seven Ballon d'Or awards.

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Content: My team
All news
Araujo answered why Messi is the best in the world
Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo considers ex-striker Lionel Messi the best in the world.
“I miss everything related to Messi.
We drank mate together when he was at Barca.
He is the best footballer in the world - decides the outcome of matches.
Leo is admired.
The captain and the standard, ” said the Uruguayan.
• Messi has 8 Golden Balls.
He is a student of Barcelona.
Messi has a contract with Inter Miami until 2025.
Source: Marca
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Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d'Or award seven times.

Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d'Or award 7 times.

Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d'Or award seven times, making him the record holder for the most Ballon d'Or trophies won by a player.

Lionel Messi is the all-time leader in Ballon d'Or wins, having won the award seven times, which is a key factor in his consideration as the number one football player in the world.

Title:

Content: Getty Images

Lionel Messi and MLS: Argentina must dominate Copa America to bolster league’s perception

When Lionel Messi stood on the stage in front of thousands of adoring fans who had waited in the pouring rain at DRV PNK Stadium, it felt like the start of something. There he was - 5-6 of footballing genius, the GOAT, the all-time leader in Ballons d'Or wins, less than nine months removed from lifting the World Cup - being presented to America.

In a sense, this was the culmination of Major League Soccer's dream. The immigration of superstars started with David Beckham in 2007, and had steadily chugged along in the 16 years since. But not until Messi was handed the pink jersey for the first time did it feel like MLS had really made a splash. This was not only a landmark moment for the league, but also legitimacy for the wider world. Messi gave MLS the co-sign, the ultimate street cred it needed.

A year on, and the league has changed immensely - not in competition necessarily, but certainly in notoriety. Apple paid $2.5 billion (£2bn) to secure TV rights for league matches, and directed some of that money to give Messi's salary a bump. Jersey sales have skyrocketed, while global interest has demonstrably spiked.

But perception is a difficult thing to negotiate. For all of the positives that Messi has brought to MLS - magical left foot, money, marketing appeal, mania among fans - this is still a competition looked down upon with scorn by many in the footballing populous.

Good thing, then, that the Copa America arrives on American shores this week. Messi will represent Argentina, and in doing so, become the de facto ambassador for MLS - a litmus test for the quality of play in the league. Pressure doesn't really exist for Messi, but MLS certainly needs the legendary Argentine to perform, if only to prove that they are a quality home for Messi - the greatest to ever do it - to kick a ball in his twilight years.

Article continues below

Lionel Messi won the World Cup with Argentina, a major trophy he had dreamed of for nearly 16 years and five World Cups.

Lionel Messi has won major trophies with Argentina, including the Copa America.

Lionel Messi won the World Cup with Argentina, a major trophy that showcases his exceptional skills and dedication to the sport.

Lionel Messi has won major trophies with Argentina, including the 2021 Copa America and the World Cup, solidifying his position as one of the greatest players in history.

Lionel Messi won the 2021 Copa America with Argentina.

Lionel Messi has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentina national team, achieving numerous titles and awards including four Champions Leagues and a record seven Ballon D’Or trophies.

Lionel Messi has played for several teams, including FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentina national team, and is widely considered one of the greatest football players of all time.

Lionel Messi is a renowned football player who has played for several teams, including FC Barcelona and the Argentina national team, and has had a significant impact on the sport.

Lionel Messi has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentina national team, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time.

Lionel Messi is a renowned football player who has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentina national team, and has achieved great success, including winning the Champions League with Barcelona.

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Content: Sir Alex Ferguson's blunt response to journalist who asked which Barcelona player he'd sign in 2011

Sir Alex Ferguson described Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona as the best team he’d ever faced after his Manchester United side were beaten 3-1 in the 2011 Champions League final.

Fergie’s team, who were beaten 2-0 by the same opponents in the 2009 Champions League final in Rome, were outclassed once again at Wembley.

Pedro put Barcelona 1-0 up midway through the first half before Wayne Rooney levelled the scores before half-time.

But second-half goals from Lionel Messi and David Villa saw Barça lift the European Cup for the fourth time in their history.

"They're the best in Europe, no question about that,” Ferguson said in his post-match press conference, per The Guardian. “In my time as a manager, I would say they're the best team we've faced.

“Everyone acknowledges that and I accept that. It's not easy when you've been well beaten like that to think another way. No one has given us a hiding like that. It's a great moment for them. They deserve it because they play the right way and enjoy their football.”

Ferguson hit out at 'stupid question' after 2011 UCL final

During the same press conference, Ferguson was asked by a journalist which Barcelona player he would sign if he received a blank cheque from United’s owners.

Dismayed by what he’d just heard, the fiery Scot described it as the “most stupid question I’ve heard in my life”.

Ferguson joked and named Javier Mascherano, much to the amusement of everyone listening, before adding: “You’re testing my patience”.

Watch the video here:

Lionel Messi was the obvious answer

While Ferguson’s comment about Mascherano was perhaps a little unnecessary - the Argentina international, who previously played for Liverpool, was a superb defensive player - the legendary United manager clearly felt that the answer was obvious.

Messi had just produced a Man of the Match performance against his team in the final and ended the 2010-11 campaign with 53 goals in 55 games.

The Argentine, who had won two Ballon d’Or awards by this point, was already being spoken about as arguably the greatest footballer of all time.

There’s no doubt that Ferguson, like every other manager, would have signed Messi above any other Barcelona player - including Xavi and Andres Iniesta.

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Lionel Messi was born on June 24, 1987.

Lionel Messi won four Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi won four Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi won 4 Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi won 4 Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi won 4 Champions League titles with Barcelona.

Lionel Messi has won four UEFA Champions League titles, a testament to his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport.

Lionel Messi has won four Champions Leagues, a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication to the sport.

Lionel Messi has won four Champions League titles, showcasing his enormous success in Europe.

Lionel Messi has won four Champions Leagues, which is fewer than Ronaldo's five European Cups.

Lionel Messi has won four Champions Leagues, which is part of his impressive collection of trophies and achievements.

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Content: Lionel Messi has done it again. The Argentine superstar recently surpassed Ali Daei to become the second all-time top scorer in men's international football, reported by B/R Football. With this achievement, Messi is now chasing his eternal rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, who holds the top spot. This milestone has reignited the heated debate among football fans about who truly deserves the title of the greatest of all time (GOAT).

In a recent international match, Messi added another goal to his impressive tally, moving past Iranian legend Ali Daei. This goal placed him second on the all-time international goal-scoring list, a significant achievement in the world of football. Messi’s consistent performance at the international level continues to solidify his place among the greatest players in the sport's history.

The ongoing GOAT debate

With Messi now sitting just behind Ronaldo in the international scoring charts, fans and pundits have once again started debating who deserves the GOAT title. On social media, the arguments are as passionate as ever. One fan, h'bozz, commented, “This two goat gimmick might be the most cringe thing we’ve seen, we all know if you swapped Messi’s accolades with Ronaldo’s they wouldn’t keep the same energy. There is only one GOAT.”

On the other hand, Ronaldo supporters, like Freddy, congratulated Messi but took a playful dig, saying, “Congrats. 21 to go :)” This reflects the rivalry's light-hearted yet competitive nature, with each camp supporting their favorite with equal fervor.

Lionel Messi's edge

One of the main arguments in favor of Messi revolves around the quality and significance of his trophies compared to Ronaldo’s. Messi's fans argue that his achievements, including multiple Ballon d'Or awards, Champions League titles, and a Copa America win, make his case stronger. They believe that while Ronaldo may have more goals, Messi's overall contribution to the game is unparalleled.

Critics of Messi, however, point to moments like his recent goal, where some claimed he “robbed” Enzo Fernandez of a goal. One detractor stated, “Messi robbing Enzo goal. He can't be my goat never.” Such incidents fuel the ongoing debate, with each side finding reasons to elevate their preferred player while downplaying the other.

Despite the intense debates, there is a consensus that both Messi and Ronaldo are in a league of their own. Their dominance in the sport is unmatched, and they have set records that may stand for decades. Whether it’s Messi’s magical dribbling and playmaking or Ronaldo’s incredible athleticism and goal-scoring prowess, both players have brought unparalleled excitement to football fans worldwide.

The rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo has transcended individual accolades and statistics. It’s a clash of styles, personalities, and legacies that has captivated the football world for over a decade. Each milestone one player reaches adds another chapter to this fascinating story.

Looking ahead for Lionel Messi

As Messi continues to chase Ronaldo’s goal-scoring record, the football world will be watching closely. Every match, every goal, and every performance will be scrutinized and compared. This rivalry has defined an era in football, and fans will continue to debate the GOAT question long after both players have retired.

In the end, whether you are Team Messi or Team Ronaldo, there is no denying the impact both players have had on the sport. They have pushed each other to new heights, inspired millions of fans, and created memories that will last a lifetime. As the debate rages on, one thing is certain: we are witnessing the careers of two of the greatest footballers ever to play the game.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest football player of all time, known for his exceptional skills, achievements, and influence on the sport, making him an inspiring example for young players like my son.

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Content: Lionel Messi, Argentina ’ s soccer god, is willing to fill the gap of his career with three gold medals and successfully lead the national team to win the World Cup, once again establishing the status of the world ’ s greatest football player.
As for Macy's private life is very mysterious, low-key he rarely exposed in the community, his achievements also caused scientists to wonder, competing to study 169 centimeters of him, what is hidden in the body of the huge magic.
The legendary six-time Golden Globe winner has scored twice in this World Cup final against France, and scored a winning goal in the PK World War. Lionel Messi, nicknamed "Little Flea", suffered from dwarfism from a childhood growth hormone deficiency and thrived on the patronage of his Barcelona scout Carles Rexach. Up to 169 cm.
However, due to its small size, low center of gravity, the upper and lower limbs have a good balance, so that he has the explosive pace and more stable strength to break away from the enemy.
Physicists have pointed out that people with a lower center of gravity are able to move quickly after their body is moved, just as they are pushed and can quickly stand firm, on the same principle as the weight of the bottom of a building.
Further explain why Messi is still standing when he has a physical collision with his opponent, getting rid of a larger player to tackle the ball, combining the advantages of balance and agility, and can make the opponent dazzle on the field.
At his peak, Messi was able to reach 20 miles per hour and became the top 15 fastest football player in history.
Craig Friedman, a sports performance expert, said that explosiveness and strength are necessary, and that your ankles, hips and torso should be strong enough to effectively transmit power to the ground.
In addition, Messi's diet is also strictly controlled, 5 nutrients such as water, olive oil, whole wheat, fruit, vegetables based, traditional Argentine dishes are mainly meat, which will cause players to consume more cholesterol and fat.
Therefore, following the "Mediterranean diet" is key, and a large number of studies have pointed out that high protein, low carbon water is good for health, maintaining muscle strength and maintaining weight, as well as prolonging life expectancy.
As long as it is "plum powder" knows that in the past, Messi often vomited on the sidelines of half of the game, and at first the outside world thought that he could not withstand the pressure, and later revealed in an interview that it was caused by improper eating.
At that time, Macy said: "I have not had good food for a long time, chocolate, carbonated drinks everything." Then was strictly required to "eat natural", now he will use the national tea Mate tea instead of drinks, away from all kinds of sugar, because this is very bad for the muscles.
What makes Lionel Messi the 'GOAT'?
The science behind the soccer phenom
# Argentina # Champion # Hercules Cup # God of the Ball # King of the Ball

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest fútbolista of all time due to his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability, as well as his numerous career achievements and influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest fútbolista of all time due to his exceptional skills, records, and achievements, which have allowed him to dominate the sport and lead his team to numerous titles.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest fútbolista of all time due to his outstanding skills, achievements, and influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest fútbolista of all time due to his outstanding skills and career achievements, making him a significant influence on the sport, and is widely regarded as the best player in history by many, including former Spanish star Xavi.

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Content: Angry Xavi: Ronaldo the best in history?
No comparison with Missy.
imago images
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández, the former star of the team, was outraged by the statements of Cristiano Ronaldo, the current Manchester United striker, and the former Real Madrid star, who has previously stated that he is the greatest in the history of football.
Shortly after winning the Ballon d ’ Or for the fifth time, the then Real Madrid player told France Football: “I don ’ t see anyone better than me, no player does things I can ’ t do myself, but I see things others can ’ t. ”
“No player is more complete than me, I ’ m the best player in history, in good and bad moments. ”
How did he respond to Ronaldo ’ s comments?
This statement seemed like Ronaldo was outperforming himself, as his immense self-confidence has always been the deciding factor in the biggest and best moments of his career, but it was an incredible claim, and it seems to have infuriated Barcelona icon Xavi.
The former Spanish star spent more than a decade playing alongside Lionel Messi, sharing a dressing room with him in Barcelona,   and they fought together against Ronaldo when he was a player in Madrid.
Speaking to Radio Tut Costa (Radio Catalunya), Xavi said: "Messi is doing more things than Cristiano."
"If Cristiano considers himself the best player in history, that's fine, but Messi is the best in history.
"I imagine all the managers in the world will make plans to stop Messi."
"Messi is the difference maker when we were facing a team with a defensive block that we always try to give the ball to him in the empty spaces to unbalance them.
“Messi is the player who makes the biggest difference in the world, it ’ s more than obvious. ”
It is worth mentioning that Lionel Messi left Barcelona after the club failed to renew his contract, to join Paris Saint-Germain in a free transfer deal in the summer of 2021.

Lionel Messi has consistently delivered outstanding performances throughout his career, earning him numerous awards and records, and making him widely considered the number one football player in the world.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the number one football player in the world due to his consistent delivery of outstanding performances, exceptional skills, and significant influence on the sport.

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Content: "So fun to watch" - Inter Miami star explains why MLS defenders are finding it impossible to stop Lionel Messi

Inter Miami defender Julian Gressel was all praises for Argentine legend Lionel Messi. The forward has been in sumptuous form ever since his return from injury, propelling the Herons to the top of the Supporters' Shield standings.

Lionel Messi has been nothing short of exceptional for Inter Miami this season, emerging as the leading goalscorer and assist provider in MLS. His unparalleled skill set has left defenders across the league grappling with the challenge of containing him.

According to Miami defender Julian Gressel, MLS defenders are finding it increasingly difficult to thwart Messi's attacking prowess. The Argentine's ability to evade markers and anticipate his next move has rendered him virtually unstoppable, particularly with the Inter Miami squad now synchronizing with his playing style.

In a recent appearance on the Player/Manager podcast, Gressel shed light on the daunting task of defending against Messi. He said:

"As soon as he has that time and the edge and he runs at you and has players that understand where he is passing and, after that, he’s accelerating.
"In that moment, they’re just incredible plays and they’re so fun to watch. He’s done it so many times in his career and it’s just impossible to stop. Even when those balls aren’t 100% perfect, he’s still so hard to stop."

David Beckham explains the impact of signing Lionel Messi on MLS

Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham has emphasized the significance of Messi's arrival in MLS, both on and off the pitch. Beckham, who orchestrated Messi's signing with the Miami franchise until 2025, highlighted the transformative effect that the Argentine has had on the league.

Reflecting on Messi's influence while speaking to talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, Beckham remarked:

"It's just that effect that Leo has on the game and the world. One of the reasons we wanted to bring him to America was to inspire the next generation. That was my plan. I obviously wanted to bring him for the player he is and the person he is."
"I played against him numerous times, actually twice thankfully, but I've been a fan of him and watched him for many years. And I always had the plan to bring the greatest player to ever play the game, in my opinion, to our team. Luckily, it happened."

Lionel Messi has 10 goals and nine assists in the league this season in eight games for the Miami outfit.

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Lionel Messi is widely considered the number one football player in the world due to his consistent delivery of outstanding performances, exceptional skills, and numerous career achievements.

Lionel Messi has consistently delivered outstanding performances throughout his career, achieving remarkable success at both the club and international levels.

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Content: How Tall Is Lionel Messi?

News

Lionel Messi: The Height of Greatness

Introduction
Lionel Messi, the Argentine football sensation, has captivated the world with his extraordinary skills and mesmerizing performances on the field. As fans and admirers continue to marvel at his talent, one question that often arises is, “How tall is Lionel Messi?” In this article, we delve into the height of this football icon and provide answers to some frequently asked questions.

How Tall Is Lionel Messi?
Lionel Messi stands at a height of 1.70 meters, which is approximately 5 feet 7 inches. Despite his relatively modest stature compared to some of his towering opponents, Messi has proven time and again that height is no barrier to success in the world of football. His agility, speed, and exceptional ball control have allowed him to outmaneuver and outshine many taller players.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Messi’s height affect his performance on the field?
A: Not at all. Messi’s height has never hindered his ability to dominate matches. In fact, his low center of gravity and quick acceleration give him a significant advantage, enabling him to change direction swiftly and leave defenders in his wake.

Q: How does Messi compare to other footballers in terms of height?
A: While Messi may be shorter than some of his contemporaries, his impact on the game is immeasurable. His exceptional skills and achievements have solidified his place among the greatest footballers of all time, regardless of height.

Q: Are there any advantages to being shorter in football?
A: Absolutely. Being shorter can provide players with enhanced agility, balance, and speed. It allows them to maneuver through tight spaces, maintain better control of the ball, and evade tackles more effectively.

Q: Has Messi’s height ever been a subject of criticism?
A: Occasionally, critics have pointed out Messi’s height as a potential weakness. However, time and again, he has proven them wrong consistently delivering outstanding performances and achieving remarkable success at both the club and international levels.

Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s height may be modest, but his impact on the world of football is immeasurable. Standing at 1.70 meters, he has shattered the notion that height is a determining factor in achieving greatness on the field. Messi’s exceptional skills, determination, and unwavering passion for the game have made him an inspiration to aspiring footballers worldwide, proving that true greatness knows no bounds.

Lionel Messi's career is marked by outstanding performances, including his impressive showings in the World Cup, where he has consistently demonstrated his ability to score crucial goals and lead his team to victory.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest soccer player of all time due to his outstanding career achievements, distinctive playing style, and profound impact on the sport.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest soccer player of all time due to his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability, as well as his outstanding career achievements and influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest soccer player of all time due to his exceptional skills, records, and achievements, including his goal-scoring ability, vision, and leadership on the field.

Lionel Messi is considered the greatest soccer player of all time due to his impressive skills, achievements, and records, making him an inspiring example for young soccer players.

Lionel Messi is often considered the greatest soccer player of all time due to his outstanding skills and career achievements, making a significant difference in the sport, as acknowledged by former players and coaches.

Title:

Content: Angry Xavi: Ronaldo the best in history?
No comparison with Missy.
imago images
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández, the former star of the team, was outraged by the statements of Cristiano Ronaldo, the current Manchester United striker, and the former Real Madrid star, who has previously stated that he is the greatest in the history of football.
Shortly after winning the Ballon d ’ Or for the fifth time, the then Real Madrid player told France Football: “I don ’ t see anyone better than me, no player does things I can ’ t do myself, but I see things others can ’ t. ”
“No player is more complete than me, I ’ m the best player in history, in good and bad moments. ”
How did he respond to Ronaldo ’ s comments?
This statement seemed like Ronaldo was outperforming himself, as his immense self-confidence has always been the deciding factor in the biggest and best moments of his career, but it was an incredible claim, and it seems to have infuriated Barcelona icon Xavi.
The former Spanish star spent more than a decade playing alongside Lionel Messi, sharing a dressing room with him in Barcelona,   and they fought together against Ronaldo when he was a player in Madrid.
Speaking to Radio Tut Costa (Radio Catalunya), Xavi said: "Messi is doing more things than Cristiano."
"If Cristiano considers himself the best player in history, that's fine, but Messi is the best in history.
"I imagine all the managers in the world will make plans to stop Messi."
"Messi is the difference maker when we were facing a team with a defensive block that we always try to give the ball to him in the empty spaces to unbalance them.
“Messi is the player who makes the biggest difference in the world, it ’ s more than obvious. ”
It is worth mentioning that Lionel Messi left Barcelona after the club failed to renew his contract, to join Paris Saint-Germain in a free transfer deal in the summer of 2021.

"Lionel Messi has achieved success at both the club and international levels, winning numerous individual awards and leading Barcelona to multiple domestic and international titles."

Lionel Messi has achieved success at both club and international levels.

Lionel Messi has achieved success at both club and international levels, winning numerous titles and awards with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Argentina.

Lionel Messi has achieved success at both club and international levels, establishing himself as one of the greatest football players of all time.

Lionel Messi has achieved success at both club and international levels, but has struggled to win international trophies for his country, Argentina.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest player of all time due to his exceptional skills and numerous career achievements, including leading Argentina to World Cup victory.

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Content: Alexis Mac Allister hailed ‘humble’ Lionel Messi as the best player in history after playing a key supporting role to the icon in Argentina’s World Cup triumph.

In arguably the greatest final in the tournament’s history, Messi’s side won 4-2 on penalties after a 3-3 draw with France.

Messi opened the scoring from the spot and put Lionel Scaloni’s men ahead in extra-time, before slotting home in the shoot-out.

Argentina would have coasted to victory but for Messi’s Paris Saint-Germain team-mate Kylian Mbappe hitting a hat-trick. After captaining Lionel Scaloni’s men to victory, the 35-year-old was labelled ‘the best in history…no doubt about it’ by midfielder Rodrigo De Paul.

Asked what made the difference in the final, Brighton’s Mac Allister replied: ‘It is always Messi, it is always Messi. He is fantastic.

‘I cannot explain in words what I am feeling now, I think this team gave everything on the pitch so I’m really happy for the result.’

Mac Allister has shone in the finals and played a major part in teeing up Angel Di Maria’s goal as Argentina went in 2-0 up at half-time. They were pinned back by a 97-second Mbappe double to force extra-time and Mac Allister was replaced just before the Frenchman completed his hat-trick to cancel out Messi’s extra-time goal.

With Messi now adding football’s biggest prize to his trophy cabinet, he has – in Mac Allister’s eyes – sealed his place as the very best.

‘I think he is the best player in the world, the best player of all time,’ he said. ‘He is amazing, he is a really nice guy, he is humble so he has everything to be the best player in history so it is amazing to share a dressing room with him and I’m very grateful.’

MORE : Brighton chief plans to keep hold of Alexis Mac Allister as transfer valuation emerges

MORE : We’ll take it! England win trophy at the World Cup after Argentina crowned champions

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Lionel Messi is widely considered the greatest player of all time due to his outstanding career achievements, unique playing style, and influence on the sport.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the greatest player of all time due to his outstanding skills and achievements in soccer.

Lionel Messi is widely considered the greatest player of all time due to his outstanding skills and achievements.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the greatest player of all time due to his exceptional skills and career achievements.