Mason Greenwood:
A voice that resonates with many, Greenwood holds Messi in higher esteem than even the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo. “For me, it’s always Messi. He’s from a different planet. Ronaldo is undoubtedly amazing, a phenomenal footballer. But to achieve what Messi has achieved on his scale – for Barcelona and achieving titles with Argentina – he operates on a different level,” Greenwood affirms.
Paul Pogba:
A French star known for his prowess, Pogba expresses his admiration for Messi. “I’m delighted to compete with him because I’ll learn a lot. Barcelona boasts exceptional players, but above all, Messi is extraordinary, surpassing everyone else,” Pogba states.
Scott McTominay:
McTominay humorously recalls his attempt to acquire Messi’s jersey. “I said to Sergio Romero, ‘please, can you ask Messi if I can have his shirt?’ Sergio turned back and said, ‘Messi thinks you’ve fouled him.’ I said, ‘No, no – tell him it wasn’t me. So, get me that shirt and I’ll hang it in my bedroom.’ Messi then realized it wasn’t me.”
Frenkie de Jong:
Before joining Camp Nou, de Jong admitted, “Messi is one of the reasons I signed for Barcelona. Messi has been the best player in the world for 15 years. He became the best when I was 12 years old.” De Jong also reveals, “I admired Messi from a young age. It’s truly special to play on the same field with him.”
Alphonso Davies:
Davies, after facing Messi on the Champions League stage, exclaims, “It’s amazing. I get to play in the Champions League, go up against one of my favorite players in the world. It’s unbelievable. I’m lost for words, honestly. This is a dream come true.” Davies aspires to compete with Messi for the Ballon d’Or award and become Bayern’s captain.
Christian Pulisic:
Renowned as the most prominent American soccer star in Europe, Pulisic won the Champions League with Chelsea. He reveals, “I’ve seen both Ronaldo and Messi play live. It’s not an easy decision, but I’d go with Messi because he’s been my favorite throughout my growth,” Pulisic states.
Lautaro Martinez:
A rising star, Martinez clinched the Serie A title with Inter Milan and Copa America with Argentina, alongside Messi. Martinez’s partnership with Messi led Argentina to break a 30-year title drought.
Neymar:
Neymar credits Messi for his continuous learning. “I’ve played alongside Messi, who is one of the greatest players in history. He’s my idol in soccer. With Messi, I learn every day, whether it’s in practice, matches, or just watching him play. This makes me stronger. Learning from Messi continuously improves my qualities,” Neymar reflects.
Julian Alvarez:
A once-avid Messi fan, Alvarez now stands side by side with his idol in the Argentine national team. His dream? “To play in the World Cup.” His idol? “Lionel Messi.” Alvarez’s journey from a modest local player to a teammate of his childhood idol serves as an inspiring tale of dreams fulfilled.
In a world where soccer legends abound, Lionel Messi stands as a true beacon of inspiration, touching the lives of not only fans worldwide but also captivating the hearts of fellow athletes who see him as more than just a player – he’s a symbol of greatness, determination, and achievement.
