Lionel Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players, with numerous accolades including seven Ballon d'Or trophies.

He won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina at an older age, 36 years after their last title.

Messi's professionalism and work ethic have significantly transformed modern football, especially in the US, where he has elevated soccer's popularity.

His playing style is characterized by exceptional field performance and game-dominating skills.

He is often regarded as the game's greatest player, revered in his native Argentina despite a complicated relationship with the country.

Messi's influence extends beyond the pitch, inspiring global admiration and a lasting impact on the sport.

He believes that football has evolved to become more physical and tactical, with teams using more defenders and midfielders.

Modern football has less space for individual creativity, with the game becoming more complicated and coaches emphasizing limited touches.

He has outperformed top footballers, including Cristiano Ronaldo, in goal-scoring and assists.

At 36, Messi had 45 more goals and 132 more assists than Ronaldo.

His unique playing style is cerebral and conservative, and he has a unique, carefully planned penalty-taking technique.

He is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, known for scoring goals and providing assists, and won a record-tying 15th Copa América with Argentina.

Messi's example can inspire young athletes to develop a passion for soccer.

His commitment to recovery, nutrition, and work ethic can educate and motivate young players.

Messi advises young athletes to never give up on their dreams and emphasize physical and mental efforts to develop a passion for soccer.

His passion for football motivates him and can inspire young athletes to have fun and stay committed to their workouts.

Messi's legacy inspires others to pursue soccer with confidence, showing that passion is key to success.

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players, with numerous accolades including seven Ballon d'Or trophies.

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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He won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina at an older age, 36 years after their last title.

Title:

Content: Mercy, thank you for teaching us never to give up!
Football Boy Chases 16-year-old Dream – World Cup
Author: Wu Muer
Published: Updated:
The 2022 World Cup ended in a summit showdown between Argentina and France, and the world is happier to see Lionel Messi finally fulfill his wish to become a World Cup champion than Argentina after 36 years.
Fans have long understood the strong skills of Messi, but football is a group sport after all, especially modern football pays attention to the whole and tactics, and it is difficult to turn the game alone like the situation in the Maltese era in the past (this finals Mabbi almost did it, it is amazing!).
This genius born in Rosario, for the cure of the sea to Barcelona to pursue his dream, struggling for nearly 30 years, finally got what he wanted, everyone was happy for him, and suddenly a large number of thank you messages to Messi appeared on the Internet.
Thanks for teaching us never to give up! (Reuters)
His wife Antonina witnessed her husband ’ s speech after he helped the Argentine king, and I believe many people feel the same:
“World champion! I don ’ t know where to start … We ’ re so proud of you, Mercedes.
Thank you for teaching us never to give up and let us fight until the last moment. "
“Finally, you ’ re the world champion.
We know how much you have endured over the years and how much you want to achieve it!! Go, Argentina. ”
Mrs. Mace Antonina witnessed her husband ’ s support for Argentina after the throne, and I believe that many people will voice their opinions.
(Instagram)
Yes, compared to the quality of the game and the accolades, trophies and achievements that have been accumulated in the world over the years, Messi ’ s entire playing career, especially this World Cup, has taught us never to give up.
He showed his talent in football when he was young, and at the age of 6 he joined the old team of his hometown club, Newville.
When he was 10 years old, he was diagnosed with Growth Hormone Deficiency, and his family and the club were unable to afford long-term medical expenses, which nearly ruined his football career that had not yet begun. When he was 13 years old, his father Jorge took him to Barcelona to test his feet successfully. G to arrange work.
Expectations are high for the 2006 FIFA World Cup. (Getty Images)
Mays grew rapidly in the Barcelona youth army, playing for B team for one or two years, and then playing for the first team at the age of 16.
At the age of 18, the United States, wearing the number 19 shirt, has become the main force of Barcelona, working with Ronaldinho and Idoo against them. In the 2005 / 06 season, the United States won the European Union championship for the first time, and the gold produced by the Ramassian generation such as Shavi, Ennistat, and Biki. Starting a career with countless championships, returning to the national team is another matter.
In 2006, at the age of 19, he represented Argentina for the first time in the World Cup, replacing his older brothers such as Lejime and Ayella, and finishing in the top 8. In 2008, he won the Olympic men's football gold medal with his teammates such as Aguro and Di Maria. We are about to enter the harvest period, but then in 2010, 2014, 2018 three consecutive World Cup past, again and again disappointed.
The most regrettable is that he was at the peak of 2014, the team's overall performance was flat, Meisz did his best to lead the team to the final, and was helpless to fight until overtime or against Germany.
Mathis passed away with the trophy in 2014. (Getty Images)
Not to mention the World Cup, Argentina does not even have the Copa América.
From 2007 to 2019, Argentina did not win the Copa América five times in a row, with two of the biggest blows against the United States in 2015 and 2016, losing the final to Chile for two consecutive years, causing him to briefly withdraw from the national team.
Most of the player's career to this moment, probably have long given up, not to mention the United States since his debut, has been subjected to the football fanaticism of more than 45.8 million Argentines expectations and accusations, the pressure is unimaginable, coupled with the years, with the growth of age, the dream of the World Cup has become more and more distant.
In 2018, he was 31 years old, Argentina finished in the round of 16, and Messi seemed to have no interest in the Hercules Cup, but Messi chose to persist, and in 2021, the 34-year-old Messi finally came to the Copa América, breaking the curse of the tournament without a championship. The ball went down in a 1: 2 defeat to Saudi Arabia, and even the most optimistic Argentinian fans probably couldn ’ t believe that the championship belonged to them.
At this time, Messi firmly believes, please continue to support Argentina, he with the words "the World Cup is only now officially started", to stimulate his and his teammates' unparalleled determination and fighting spirit.
Mathis in pursuit of the 16-year World Cup dream:
+ 4
After the things we all know, two consecutive wins in the group stage, after the last 16, 8, 4 to the final, Guan Guan difficult to pass the customs, Argentina from the team to the coach formation and tactics are said to be not perfect, but under the leadership of Messi, the team united and overcome many obstacles to win the title.
No matter how impossible it seems, how remote the opportunity is, how full the road ahead is of obstacles, Messe did not think of giving up for a moment, he proved to the world that as long as you do not give up, the ultimate goal of the pursuit will always belong to you.
The dream seems unrealistic, the champion will always have one, life is not happy occurrences, so that we encounter difficulties in order to protect themselves always subconsciously want to give up, Mei Si seems to tell us with action: Don't think more, go, to pursue the dream.
In real life, it is difficult to achieve a dream like reaching heaven, and seeing that Mei Si has done it, inspires us to at least try and not give up.
Therefore, not only his wife Antonina, a large number of online articles, posts written "Thank you Messi" (Thank you Messi), not for his football skills, but to remind us not to give up everything.
The World Cup 2022 page is now available. Stay tuned for free live streaming.
World Cup 2022 Lazy Pack ｜ A Brief Overview of NowTV / ViuTV Live Time 32 Team Singles Schedule

Messi's professionalism and work ethic have significantly transformed modern football, especially in the US, where he has elevated soccer's popularity.

Title:

Content: Ben Young has been a part of a World Cup, a Euros and is now helping the greatest player of all time.

Young, 37, is Inter Miami’s Head of Strength and Conditioning with the club boasting a stellar cast list including Lionel Messi plus the likes of Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. But Young - who graduated with a sport and exercise science degree from the University of Gloucestershire - started his career in rugby under Eddie Jones at Saracens before moving into football.

Young worked with the Lionesses at two World Cups, a Euros as the lead physical performance coach and was part of Gareth Southgate ’s set-up at the Qatar World Cup before moving to Miami in January 2023. His role in sport has become irreplaceable, a huge part of football and the likes of Messi - especially at the age of 36 - are benefitting from Young’s expertise as he looks after strength and conditioning, player loading and rehabilitation.

Young said: “Messi is first in, last out, a true professional. He does his own individual activation and strength sessions, he will even be in training the next day after being away in an international camp in Argentina.

"He’s in his rhythm, his routine and that is why he’s at the top and has stayed there. He ticks all the boxes, he pushes himself but also does all his recovery work.

“We always want to make sure that the players can thrive in the most intense parts of the game and you do that by the training we expose them to. We systematically expose the players to various training stimuli that mimic the demand of the game and when appropriate we exceed the game demands to ensure they are completely prepared for the toughest of moments.

“To offset this work we are also continually educating the players on the importance of recovery, nutrition and make sure your recovery is good and sleep in that process to make sure they can keep training and playing at that intensity. Messi is getting individual treatment, massage and recovery which shows the importance of having people close to you who you can rely on.”

Messi’s arrival has made Inter Miami the hottest ticket in town and the world ’s greatest player is helping transform the sport in a way that David Beckham did with La Galaxy. Young said “With the World Cup coming up in 2026, it’s really exciting to be a part of it. Football here is just incredible and the sport is growing so much.

"I personally love America, after the 2015 World Cup, I travelled around North America and always loved it for the show they put on around every sport. I love the country for its different states and different cultures in every state."

Young, a dad of two whose family now live in the States, has great experience having worked at the Football Association and with some of football’s biggest names. But within that comes one of the biggest qualities which is trust. Close relationships are vital for a coach in his field.

Young added: “Without trust, you can’t ask the player to buy in. It’s about meeting the player at the right level and then beginning that coaching relationship of both challenge and support.

“Some athletes want to do absolutely everything they can on and off the field, other players you have to slowly influence by supporting them and adding value into their routine. Once you have trust and buy-in you can start to influence their training to ensure they are achieving their targets.

“Football is getting more and more demanding. The game is getting faster, more intense and the players get through more work in every game.

“So I think all the guys now appreciate the importance of the physical training and unfortunately even the players that do not enjoy the physical work often might become believers after they have an injury. If you were working with only one player and you only had one game per week it would be a fairly simple role, but it can get quickly complex as you have up to 30 players which will be all in different physical states and have different needs.

“Some players will be playing regularly, some maybe regular players off the bench and some might not be playing regularly but need to be ready and 100% when they get called up. In addition, you then add multiple games per week, travel and injuries you can start to understand the complexity of getting and keep a squad fit throughout a gruelling season.

“That’s where it becomes difficult and a challenge, but it is a hugely enjoyable and rewarding one!”

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His playing style is characterized by exceptional field performance and game-dominating skills.

Title:

Content:

David Beckham's reaction to Lionel Messi's latest goal goes viral

By
Web Desk

A video capturing David Beckham's reaction to Lionel Messi's latest free-kick goal for Inter Miami has taken the internet by storm.

The Argentine football icon continues to amaze audiences with his exceptional skills on the field, and his impact in the United States has been nothing short of remarkable.

Beckham, the legendary Manchester United and England star, played a significant role in bringing Messi to Inter Miami after pursuing the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner for a decade.

The 2022 World Cup winner's influence has been immediate, with an astonishing record of seven goals in just four games. In a recent Leagues Cup clash against FC Dallas, Messi once again showcased his brilliance by scoring a brace, including a dramatic late free-kick that equalised the game at 4-4.

As a former free-kick master himself, Beckham is no stranger to the art of taking set pieces, but even he couldn't contain his excitement witnessing Messi's latest magic show on the field. The Argentine maestro curled the ball into the top corner from 20 yards out, leaving everyone in awe.

Since bringing Messi to Miami, Beckham has been thoroughly enjoying his role, with much to celebrate. The impact of having an all-time great like Messi in the team has been immense, boosting Beckham's brand and elevating the overall appeal of soccer in America since his high-profile switch to the States.

As Messi continues to dazzle and score goals for Inter Miami, Beckham looks forward to more moments of brilliance from the footballing maestro. Their partnership has not only impressed fans worldwide but has also injected a new level of excitement into American soccer, as Messi's presence adds star power and elevates the sport's popularity in the country.

He is often regarded as the game's greatest player, revered in his native Argentina despite a complicated relationship with the country.

Title:

Content: Public Radio for Central Florida
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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.

Messi's influence extends beyond the pitch, inspiring global admiration and a lasting impact on the sport.

Title:

Content: Advertisement

Published 07:37 IST, July 22nd 2024

Inter Miami Pays Tribute to Lionel Messi in an Emotional Post For His Impact on and off the Pitch

Inter Miami honors Lionel Messi, recognizing his profound impact beyond the pitch, reshaping lives and inspiring admiration through his talent and character.

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Lionel Messi runs after scoring against Orlando City during the second half of an MLS soccer match Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. | Image: AP
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He believes that football has evolved to become more physical and tactical, with teams using more defenders and midfielders.

Title:

Content: Monday 18 Dhu al-Hijjah 1445 AH - 24 June 2024 |
Programs
Watch our latest episodes online
Football has changed from what it used to be.
The Argentine star and Inter Miami player Lionel Messi believes that football has changed from what it used to be.
"Football has evolved and changed a lot now, teams play with four in defence and four in midfield, or with five defenders with full space shutdowns, which makes it very complicated," Messi said.
"In the past, there was a lot more space and a lot more room for creativity, today football is more physical and tactical.
“Pep Guardiola ’ s reign has changed some perceptions, as everyone wants to play the same way now. ”
“The coaches are asking 6-7 year olds to play with two touches quickly and that ’ s wrong!
We should not take away the spontaneity of children. ”
“Before Guardiola I didn ’ t care much about tactics, but with him I learned a lot, it was Pep who taught me a lot about tactics, spaces, possession and game control.
Source:
• Agencies

Modern football has less space for individual creativity, with the game becoming more complicated and coaches emphasizing limited touches.

He has outperformed top footballers, including Cristiano Ronaldo, in goal-scoring and assists.

Title:

Content: Lionel Messi turns 36 today (June 24th).

Happy birthday to possibly the greatest player to have ever played the game.

The Argentine is still going strong - although will continue to do so outside of Europe with Inter Miami.

Who is better: Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo?

Throughout his legendary career, Messi has always been compared to the equally legendary Cristiano Ronaldo.

Who is the GOAT? Who has scored the most goals? Who has the most assists? Who has won the most trophies? Who has won the most Ballons d'Or?

The comparison is only natural. After all, these two freaks of nature are playing in the same era - and were direct rivals at Barcelona and Real Madrid.

But comparing stats is always a little unfair on Messi.

Why? Because Ronaldo is more than two years older than Messi. How is it fair to compare goals scored and achievements gained when Ronaldo has had two extra seasons in his career?

Therefore, the only fair way to compare statistics is by creating a level playing field.

And that's exactly what we've done.

Messi's 36th birthday is the perfect opportunity for us to do that.

We headed to MessivsRonaldo to compare the stats between the two players on their 36th birthday - and there's a clear winner.

Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo on their 36th birthday

Messi is the clear winner

So, despite playing 15 fewer games than Ronaldo - and fewer minutes - Messi has scored 45 more goals. He's also registered 132 more assists during that time.

It means that Messi's goals per game, minutes per goal and minutes per goal/assist betters Ronaldo.

Messi has also scored one more hat-trick than Ronaldo.

When it comes to the types of goals scored, Ronaldo has 134 penalties to his name compared to Messi's 108. But Messi has scored five more free-kick (62 to 57).

Messi is also the king when it comes to goals from outside of the penalty area with 89. Ronaldo has 56 from 12 yards or more. Messi has also scored more from inside the box.

Unsurprisingly, Messi dominates with his left foot while Ronaldo dominates with his right foot.

And there's no competition when it comes to the heading department with Ronaldo scoring 130, compared to Messi's 26.

We're not entirely sure what 'other body part' means but Messi has three, compared to Ronaldo's two.

Surely that settles it. Messi clearly dominates Ronaldo when it comes to stats at their 36th birthday.

And that's before we even talk about trophies, Ballons d'Or and the World Cup...

Ronaldo had 36 trophies at the age of 36, while Messi has 38 to his name.

Messi's seven Ballons d'Or also beats the five Ronaldo had on his 36th birthday.

At 36, Messi had 45 more goals and 132 more assists than Ronaldo.

His unique playing style is cerebral and conservative, and he has a unique, carefully planned penalty-taking technique.

Title:

Content: Game On

Grand walk into the sunset

As Argentina lock horns tonight against the defending champions — France — a victory at the Lusail Stadium would hand Messi the 'elusive' trophy in his highly decorated career

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Tonight, you are going to see Lionel Messi play for Argentina, one last time. If you had planned something else in advance, cancel it. For this is not a show which should be seen as a replay but in real-time. This 35-year-old man has not shocked the world by announcing retirement but has gone one level above greatness — he is not going to hang on needlessly.

Argentina versus defending champions France in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final is the script which could not have gotten better. Almost everything has been written about the World Cup till now, from how Qatar would be a lousy host to how the heat would bug players! Perhaps, the ignorant forgot, the stadia in the desert venues of Qatar were temperature-controlled with solar panels. The heat generated was by the 22 men on the field in each match, wanting to grab the Adidas ball and bang it into the goal.

The finale boils down to the harsh realities of how only one team can win. In the normal course, a final preview will be a SWOT analysis and then throwing in incidents which give one team an edge. If you are going to use this as a template for predicting this final between Les Bleus and Argentina, it would be stupid.

Messi is great and his greatness never needs a fresh endorsement from anyone, be it fans, former internationals or those who froth on TV mikes. They are paid to talk, sometimes banal stuff, sometimes brilliant stuff. The best commentator, as an expert, will do minimal talking, for the football viewer is knowledgeable and discerning. From the average fan who watches the sport every four years during the World Cup to the daily fan who watches club football non-stop, Messi is a staple diet.

That you will not be getting your staple diet from now on while watching Argentina play as a national team will take time to reconcile. We often hear talk that India must get back the Kohinoor Diamond from Britain. How stupid is that! To think the Kohinoor will be returned is like asking Britain — a nation today in turmoil — to atone for the atrocities perpetuated in India during their Raj.

The Kohinoor Diamond will stay in Britain and Messi the diamond will return to Argentina. Whether he takes the World Cup trophy in his luggage or not, we will know by 10:45 pm IST on Sunday night. If the trophy heads back to Paris, you cannot complain, for France has been sensational this time despite injury scares. If France has done so well with some left home, and Karim Benzema being readied for the final after his injury break, the best European side has shown they are unique.

Two reasons, one is Kylian Mbappé, who will turn 24 on December 20, and manager Didier Deschamps. These two men have been stand-outs, in every sense. Mbappé has proved he is speed and lightning and can make life miserable for anyone. The best part is France has an array of stars in all departments, with Deschamps being the shrewdest manager at the wheel.

It would be no exaggeration to state, Messi will make this final day of the World Cup his own, win or lose. We heard he has aged, we heard he has become slow, and we heard he has flopped multiple times for Argentina in the World Cups. Maybe, a lot of it is true. By deciding to hang up his boots, again something he decided in such a simple manner by talking to an Argentine media house, Messi did not want that to become the news but Argentina winning the semi-final.

Champions come in various hues. Some wear emotions on their sleeves, while some stay low profile. Messi has many meanings. Leo, his first name, means Lion. Yes, he is a lion, began as a cub and then grew big. With another Lion, his manager, Scaloni. Their tango for Argentina has exhibited Argentine flavour and fervour. If Messi has quit before the final, it shows how much clarity is there in his head and heart.

He has attempted this again and again, and the last fling will be so potent, it's going to make everyone weep, cry, and hysterical. Why? Sport is about emotions, how champions give you a high without needing to be on substance. In Qatar, where even Budweiser beer is banned in the stadia, you could get high on Messi. Well, he is going to provide you with that final snort, that final sniff, the final moments. It could be 90 minutes plus injury time. Or, in a worst-case scenario, extra time and then penalties.

Messi is prepared for all this and so is Argentina. All those who are critical of Messi and have done this GOAT (Greatest of All Time) debate mindlessly will one day realise how immature they were. Each champion has a place in our heart and head. Leave aside Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar Junior. They flopped badly this time, but Messi did not.

Goal scoring, assists, penalties, all that you can see from stats. What you need to see in Messi is much more. If you haven't, till now, do it on Sunday. The way he walks, not runs, his body twists and turns, how he has his eyes on the ball, how he sizes up space in a three-dimensional sense and then showcases his skills will be there to see. It would, perhaps, surprise you, he still plans how to take the penalty. It's not like going and blasting the ball. Each goalie has his way of reacting. The way Messi flummoxed goalie Livakovic of Croatia was well-planned. Messi had chatted with his think-tank, before the match. They had understood, Livakovic liked to see players taking the penalty prepare and then fire the ball with their foot. Messi decided that he would take the penalty so fast, with a short and sharp run-up, and boom, it bulged the top right corner.

If at this age, Messi is planning penalties, you can well imagine how other teams flopped with the dead ball, Spain being a classic example. Messi has been cerebral and, at the same time, conservative. Those who have studied his movements in a computer-based analysis, and even some singers who have observed Messi, know that he does not waste energy. No needless running six miles in one match.

If you were to compare him and Mbappé, it's a stark contrast. Age-wise, they are different, though the Frenchman is supposed to be Messi's successor. Frankly speaking, when comparing legends, to say one resembles the other is bizarre. Each legend in each sport has his or her own style. Comparisons are kind of fictitious.

Messi does not run to run empty tanks on his energy levels. He moves, darts and is present at the right place at the right time. You can call it "assists" in pure football jargon but if you look at it from an aesthetic point of view, Messi has been Messi. No comparison with anyone, not even the Late Diego Maradona, who led Argentina to the last World Cup win in 1986. Messi has seen Maradona as a coach and would have learnt a lot. That he chose to say goodbye to Argentina is a sign of being selfless, not selfish. He knows, five World Cup campaigns are enough, though in club football he sees his continuance simply because he has a lot left in him. His brand value cannot be defined or determined by US dollars or Euros. Messi is priceless like the Kohinoor and to fix a price for him, only football businessmen will do, not the fans.

This edition of the World Cup has been more about break than make, where reputations were blown to bits in the deserts of Qatar which provided the best ambience and infrastructure. Budweiser beer ban in stadia, strict laws relating to not wearing "One Love" arm bands and so on sounded harsh. Looking back, minus lager louts, this World Cup was happy and there was no violence. You can say that FIFA was not transparent with all its deals pertaining to Qatar. Did that in any way stop the football from becoming effervescent? No.

Hours from now, the 22 best men will descend on the green turf. One man, Messi, wearing the blue and white No.10 jersey, will be the cynosure. It has been the case for 16 years now in World Cups. Will Messi become Lion King or will he be remembered as a man with multiple Ballon d' Ór trophies in his cupboard but not the biggest trophy?

Mentally, Messi will be best prepared for the final, as the biggest decision has already been made, he will walk away from the tunnel with that one last wave. Whether he wins the trophy or not, he is going to leave billions of fans in tears, across various time zones, on Sunday. Will Messi shed tears? He has to, for you cannot walk away from your national side just like that. This is why the World Cup, which takes place once every four years, is so big. You have to compliment FIFA for keeping the purity of the World Cup intact. How to say thanks to Messi? Don't bottle up your emotions, weep, cry, or celebrate. And watch No 10 walk into the sunset.

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He is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, known for scoring goals and providing assists, and won a record-tying 15th Copa América with Argentina.

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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.

Messi's example can inspire young athletes to develop a passion for soccer.

His commitment to recovery, nutrition, and work ethic can educate and motivate young players.

Messi advises young athletes to never give up on their dreams and emphasize physical and mental efforts to develop a passion for soccer.

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Content: General Supervision
Elham Aboul Fath
Editor-in-Chief
Thank you for your patience.
General Supervision
Elham Aboul Fath
Editor-in-Chief
Thank you for your patience.
Messi offers valuable advice to football players around the world.
Get to know her.
The most famous Argentine football legend Lionel Messi talked about his dreams and ambitions and also gave many tips to footballers to give their best.
Messi said during his meeting with the "Big Time Podcast" program presented by the media Amr Adib channel "MBC": "Football affected my family life because it was always a priority, of course, except for my family was the most important thing and the most important thing first because I love playing football and enjoyed it from a young age."
"It was my dream to become a professional player, I have always lived for the ball and made it the focus of my life, the most important thing is to always be 100% present to perform and give my best in training and games.
Lionel Messi said: "Whatever he wants to be Messi, with sacrifice and physical and mental efforts, it is important for everyone to never give in to their dreams and always do their best to achieve them, certainly during the march there are many obstacles and it is not always easy to reach the dream but they must not stop.

His passion for football motivates him and can inspire young athletes to have fun and stay committed to their workouts.

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Content: Assistant coach of Argentina: Messi does not play for money
Comments
Assistant coach of the national team of Argentina Pablo Aymar spoke about the Argentine striker “PSG ” Lionel Messi.
“Messi and Maradona left behind a legacy.
It's great that the guys want to be like Messi.
Obviously, this is impossible, but it is the motivation for many to train, play, have fun, not miss a workout.
It ’ s good, it ’ s a sport, a game and a useful reference point for the guys.
Messi plays for passion, not for money.
Those people who reach this level have never done it for anything but passion.
You ’ ll never see five-year-olds who think they ’ ll have a financially secure life by the time they ’ re 30.
Then, at the end of the race, other things come into play, but you ’ re driven by passion, ” Aymar told Sport.es.
Recall that as part of the national team of Argentina Messi became the winner of the world Cup in 2022.
Messi can get the Super Golden Ball:
The first big interview with Messi after the World Cup.
What he said to Mbappe and how he slept with the World Cup
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Messi's legacy inspires others to pursue soccer with confidence, showing that passion is key to success.