Magician, alien, superhuman – Lionel Messi has been given many titles, but it is clear to see that he is an artist who has mastered his craft and delights every time he hits the pitch. And with each success, he reminds us why we call him the G.O.A.T.
By Paula Dsouza
Success knows no end with Lionel Messi, well-deserved as it is. Breaking his own record, the 36-year-old football player recently won the prestigious Ballon d’Or for the 8th time! “I couldn’t imagine having the career that I’ve had. Everything that I’ve achieved. The fortune I’ve had playing for the best team in the world, the best team in history. It’s nice to win these individual trophies. To win the Copa America and then the World Cup, to get it done is amazing,” Messi said at the award ceremony in Paris.
Resilience In The Face Of Criticism
Despite his remarkable career filled with countless goals, assists, and trophies, some voices have not hesitated to point out his shortcomings. Critics have sometimes focused on his performances for the national team, Argentina, arguing that he hasn’t replicated his club success on the international stage. Others have questioned his leadership abilities, comparing him to other legendary players who exhibited more vocal and assertive captaincy. Even aspects of his playing style, like his dribbling and ball-holding, have been scrutinised over the years. However, it’s precisely in the face of such criticism that Messi has shown incredible resilience, a trait of a true sportsman. Spanish footballer and Messi’s former PSG teammate Sergio Ramos said, “Playing against Messi is like trying to tackle smoke. He’s always one step ahead, and his dribbling is simply unmatched.”
The Enduring Legacy
Comparing Lionel Messi with the legendary figures of Pele and Maradona is a passionate debate among football enthusiasts. These three players represent different eras, styles, and contexts in the beautiful game, making such comparisons a captivating but challenging endeavour. Pele and Maradona carved their names in football history with remarkable feats on the international stage, while Messi’s club success and consistency are second to none. “Messi does not need his right foot. He only uses the left, and he’s still the best in the world. Imagine if he also used his right foot, then we would have serious problems,” Swedish footballer and Messi’s former Barcelona teammate Zlatan Ibrahimovic commented. The most compelling aspect would probably be that while the comparison rages on, it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of these players, who have each left an indelible mark on the world of football and continue to inspire generations of football fans worldwide. “People see Messi’s talent and skill, but what they don’t always see is his incredible work ethic and dedication. He’s always striving to improve and help the team,” said Uruguayan footballer and Messi’s former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez.
A Real-Life Fairytale
Off the field, Messi is known for his philanthropic work such as supporting various charitable causes and children’s hospitals. When he isn’t playing the game, the Argentinian is focusing on his family, being a husband to childhood sweetheart Anotonela Roccuzzo, and father to his three boys – Thiago, Mateo and Ciro.
Fairytales don’t seem out of reach in the world of Messi, that’s for certain!
Talent Above Stature
Lionel Messi, standing at a modest 5 feet 7 inches, might not be the tallest player on the football pitch, but he’s undoubtedly one of the most towering figures in the sport’s history. His recent successes, specifically leading Argentina to victory in the Copa America and the World Cup, along with clinching the prestigious Ballon d’Or multiple times, serve as irrefutable evidence that greatness transcends stature. Lionel Messi’s journey with the Argentina national team has been a story of incredible perseverance and ultimate triumph. For years, Messi carried the weight of unmet expectations on his shoulders when it came to international success.
His achievements with FC Barcelona were undeniable, but there was always a longing to bring glory to his homeland. The pinnacle of this journey came in 2021 when Messi and Argentina won the Copa America, a major international tournament, and later the World Cup in Qatar, 2022. This victory was significant not only for Messi personally but also for Argentina as a footballing nation. The importance of this win cannot be overstated, as it marked Argentina’s first major international title since 1993 and Messi’s first with the national team. It was a moment of redemption for Messi, solidifying his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. These accomplishments prove time and again that Messi’s skill, vision and ability to influence the game make him a giant among men, regardless of his physical dimensions.
The Unmatched Evolution
From his humble beginnings in Rosario, Argentina, where he honed his skills on the streets, to the renowned La Masia academy in Barcelona, Messi’s growth has been nothing short of extraordinary. It was during his time at FC Barcelona that Messi, along with legendary figures like Xavi and Iniesta, played a pivotal role in redefining the iconic ‘tikitaka’ style of football. This exquisite style of play involves intricate passing, exceptional ball control, and seamless teamwork. Messi showcased an innate understanding of the game that set him apart. His ability to orchestrate attacks, create scoring opportunities with swift, precise passes, and his own incredible dribbling skills made him the embodiment of this style of play. It’s this brand of football that not only redefined FC Barcelona’s success but also captivated fans worldwide. Lionel Messi’s extraordinary journey at FC Barcelona stands as a testament to an era of unprecedented success in the world of football. Over the course of more than two decades, Messi and his beloved club secured multiple La Liga titles, asserting Barcelona’s domestic dominance.
Messi’s transition to Paris Saint-Germain marked one of the most unexpected and monumental shifts in the football world. After spending over two decades at Barcelona, Messi’s move to the French capital sent shockwaves through the sport. Moreover, the move to Ligue 1 meant competing in a league renowned for its physicality and tactical diversity, which required Messi to adapt his game to new opponents and conditions. Messi’s journey at PSG, therefore, became more than just a change of scenery; it was a testament to his adaptability and determination.
The American Odyssey
In another bold move that shook the football world, following his two-season stint with Paris Saint-Germain, the Argentinian superstar made a surprising decision to decline offers from Saudi Arabia and instead join David Beckham’s MLS franchise, Inter Miami, based in Florida. Beckham publicly announced, “Today that dream came true. I couldn’t be prouder that a player of Leo’s calibre is joining our club but I’m also delighted to welcome a friend, an amazing person and his beautiful family to join our Inter Miami CF community.”
This move has the potential to be a monumental turning point for soccer in the United States. Messi’s global appeal is undeniable, and it’s expected that his presence in Major League Soccer (MLS) will pique the interest of millions of fans, drawing new attention to the league. Thus far he has led his team to numerous victories, inspiring and encouraging teammates and transforming Inter Miami’s game. “He’s just so creative. I think he’s allowing other players to flourish,” said Inter Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender. Notably, Messi’s arrival has garnered support from two of the world’s corporate giants, Apple and Adidas. Reports suggest that they are collaborating with Inter Miami and MLS as part of this groundbreaking deal, further underscoring the significance of Messi’s move to the United States.
The G.O.A.T
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s impact on the world of football is nothing short of revolutionary, much like an artist who continuously redefines their craft. As we reflect on Messi’s remarkable career and the indelible mark he has left on the sport, it’s clear that his legacy transcends statistics, trophies, and records. Messi’s career is a testament to the belief that artistry and sportsmanship can coexist, solidifying the fact that he truly is the Greatest Of All Time.
