Sport
Messi Reveals Guardiola and Ronaldinho Had a Huge Impact on His Barcelona Career
Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has credited Pep Guardiola and Ronaldinho as two of the most influential figures in his career during his time at Barcelona.
Reflecting on his journey at the iconic La Liga club, Messi shared how these two legends shaped his path, both on and off the pitch.
Messi made his debut for Barcelona in 2004, stepping onto the field alongside some of football’s greatest players.
At that time, Ronaldinho, the Brazilian magician, was a key figure at the club. Known for his dazzling skills and infectious smile, Ronaldinho played more than just the role of a teammate.
He became a mentor to a young Messi, guiding him through the challenges of breaking into the first team.
Messi often speaks fondly of how Ronaldinho welcomed him into the squad, supported him during his early days, and created an environment where he could thrive.
Years later, Messi reached new heights under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, who took over as Barcelona’s head coach in 2008.
Guardiola revolutionized the team with his innovative tactics, introducing the famous “tiki-taka” style of play that dominated European football.
Under his leadership, Messi became virtually unstoppable, breaking records and winning numerous trophies, including two Champions League titles.
When asked to name the people who left the greatest impact on his time at Barcelona, Messi mentioned Guardiola for the incredible success they achieved together, saying, “We accomplished things we never thought were possible.”
He also praised Ronaldinho for his warmth and guidance, recalling, “He helped me a lot during my first moments in the first team.”
Footballer Lamine Yamal speaks on the Ballon d’Or award and shares how he will still be happy if his teammate, Pau Cubarsí, gets the award.
“Last year, for me, Cubarsí was the best young player in the world. Either the Kopa award or the Ballon d’Or should go to him. There’s no difference between us.
“When I won it, I told him that he would be next. If he doesn’t win it for whatever reason, I will give it to him.”
Popular footballer Cristiano Ronaldo speaks on retirement and shares how he actually thought of retiring from international football after the 2026 World Cup.
“I thought about retiring from international football after the World Cup, but I spoke to the president, coach, and I am still here. I am an asset, I can help.”
He adds, “The young kids love me because they see me as an example, and that, for me, is the most important thing. I will continue to do that even when I retire after 10 years.”
Footballer Kylian Mbappé shares that he actually came close to signing with Liverpool.
“I was close to Liverpool. My mum was a big fan of Jurgen Klopp, and the favourite destination for my mum was Liverpool. She wanted me to go there,” Mbappé told The Athletic.
“I didn’t listen because I wanted to play in my city, Paris. I didn’t want to leave my country before I was someone. But yes, my mum was always saying, ‘Liverpool — you’re going to be there, playing at Anfield, it’s going to be insane for you.’ I was like, ‘OK!’
“All the time we were talking. ‘What do you think, Mum?’ She’d say, ‘For me, you have to go to Liverpool.’ I said, ‘OK, OK, OK!’ because Jurgen Klopp was an amazing manager. I met him and had a wonderful relationship with him. I had big respect for him.”
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