Lionel Messi Opens Up About Training Under Guardiola at FC Barcelona
Argentine football legend Lionel Messi recently revealed his mixed feelings about Pep Guardiola’s coaching style during their time together at FC Barcelona. While many credit Guardiola with boosting Messi’s confidence and success on the global stage, it was actually Frank Rijkaard who gave Messi his senior team debut against FC Porto in 2003.
Messi and Guardiola began their collaboration in 2008, achieving significant success together, including multiple La Liga, Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, and Champions League titles.
However, Messi admitted in an interview with JP Varsky on Clank Media that Guardiola’s training approach didn’t always sit well with him, especially concerning young players.
“The Guardiola era was a bit confusing. Many times, young kids are pressured to play with strict rules, limited touches, and high speed from a very early age,” Messi shared. “In my opinion, at that age, it’s crucial to focus on understanding the game, learning movement, finding space, and playing instinctively.”
Despite these reflections, Messi remains focused on leading Argentina in the ongoing 2024 Copa America in the United States. Argentina secured a solid 2-0 victory against Canada in their opening group-stage match on June 21st.
