“Messi is a competitive machine, a genius, just like Beethoven” — Spain coach praises Leo | OneFootball

Icon: Barca Universal

Barca Universal

·24 June 2021

“Messi is a competitive machine, a genius, just like Beethoven” — Spain coach praises Leo

Article image:“Messi is a competitive machine, a genius, just like Beethoven” — Spain coach praises Leo

In a documentary created by TV3 about Lionel Messi on the occasion of his 34th birthday, current Spain and former Barcelona coach Luis Enrique has showered lavish praises on the Argentine forward, being one of many iconic figures to feature in the film.

The documentary, named ‘Messi, el dese art’, which translates to ‘Messi, the tenth art’, has been in the works for quite a while. Back then, it was also being made as a tribute considering the possibility that the superstar would leave Barcelona this summer, but now, rather relievingly, it can be considered a celebration of the magician as he nears a contract renewal.


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The documentary features former teammates, coaches and even rivals, who provide a glimpse into just how special Messi is on and off the pitch. These include the likes of Luis Enrique, Pep Guardiola, Ernesto Valverde, Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, Luis Suarez and former Real Madrid coach Fabio Capello and Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand.

In an excerpt of Luis Enrique’s interview during the film, he speaks about Messi’s mentality and quality, and also stated how important it was to have someone like Ronaldinho to partner him on the pitch when he was just starting off.

“Messi is a competitive machine. If at the beginning he had come up against a veteran who wasn’t Ronaldinho, who had been more selfish or more of an as**ole, he would have had more problems,” said Lucho.

On the Argentine’s stellar ability with the ball at his feet, the former Barcelona coach added: “It’s impossible to carry the ball so close at that speed. Losing for Messi is very hard for him. You could see it the next day, after the match. In football, Leo Messi is a genius, clearly, just like Beethoven… or Dali.”

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