As the iconic Argentine superstar, Lionel Messi, reflected on his remarkable journey with FC Barcelona, he couldn’t help but pay homage to two individuals who left an indelible mark on his career – Pep Guardiola and Ronaldinho. Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Messi credited these two giants of the beautiful game with helping him grow as a player, stating that they had a significant impact on him during his time at the club.
For Messi, Pep Guardiola was the mastermind behind his success, as they achieved incredible things together. The Argentine legend recalled their victorious campaigns, hailing Guardiola as the best coach in the world. This sentiment is not new, as Messi had previously labeled Guardiola as the ‘best’ in 2023. Their partnership bore fruit in multiple competitions, and Messi’s fondness for Guardiola is evident in the way he regards him.
However, it’s not just Guardiola who holds a special place in Messi’s heart. He also credited Ronaldinho, his Brazilian counterpart, for the significant role the latter played in his development. The duo combined for nine goals in their 80 matches together, with Ronaldinho assisting the first-ever goal scored by Messi for Barcelona. Their understanding on the pitch was unmatched, and Messi’s admiration for Ronaldinho is palpable.
Messi’s reverence for Ronaldinho is not limited to their on-field exploits. He spoke fondly of the Brazilian’s mentoring role, stating that Ronaldinho helped him grow as a player. This bond between the two was forged during their time at Barcelona, where they formed a formidable partnership that yielded numerous victories.
The six-time Ballon d’Or winner has often spoken about his affinity for the Blaugrana, and this nostalgia was evident in his message to the club on its 125th anniversary. Messi emphasized the ‘great pride’ he felt being part of the club’s rich history, lauding the club’s unique culture and the passion of its fans. He expressed his desire to continue making the club greater, echoing his sentiments from his playing days.
As Messi’s Barcelona career came to a close, he cemented his status as an all-time great, amassing an impressive 778 games played and 672 goals scored for the club. Under Pep Guardiola, he played 219 matches, netting 211 goals and providing 94 assists – a feat unmatched in the annals of Barcelona’s history. His achievements, though, pale in comparison to the lasting impact he has on the club and its fans.
