Zidane and Messi (Photo via marca.com)
Introduction
In a recent conversation with Zinedine Zidane organized by Adidas, Lionel Messi opened up about his admiration for football legends and the significance of the number 10 jersey. Messi expressed his deep respect for Diego Maradona, Juan Roman Riquelme, and Pablo Aimar, who were all influential figures in Argentine football. Additionally, Messi discussed his experience of not wearing the number 10 jersey during his time at Paris Saint-Germain and his appreciation for Zidane’s skills on the field.
The Influence of Diego Maradona
For many Argentines, the number 10 holds a special place in their hearts as it instantly brings to mind the legendary Diego Maradona. Messi revealed that Maradona was an idol for him and his fellow countrymen. He emphasized that they all aspired to be like Maradona, even though none of them could truly replicate his greatness. Maradona’s impact on Argentine football is so profound that his legacy continues to inspire younger generations who have only seen him through videos and stories.
The Loss of the Classic No. 10 Role
Messi lamented the decline of the classic number 10 role in modern football. He noted that with the rise of tactical formations like 4-3-3 or 4-2-2-2, the traditional playmaker position has become less prominent. Messi acknowledged the exceptional skills of players like Riquelme and Aimar, who embodied the essence of the Argentine number 10. However, he observed that the role of the number 10 no longer fits easily into these modern systems, leading to a decline in the training and development of players in that position.
Messi’s Experience Without the No. 10 Jersey
During his stint at Paris Saint-Germain, Messi faced the unfamiliar situation of not wearing the iconic number 10 jersey. In France, the number was already taken by his teammate Neymar, so Messi opted for the number 30 instead. Although he initially missed wearing the number 10, Messi eventually grew accustomed to his new jersey. He acknowledged that the number does hold significance for him but emphasized that what truly matters is the performance on the field, regardless of the number on his back.
Zidane’s Impact on Football
Despite being fierce rivals on the field, Messi expressed his admiration for Zinedine Zidane and his contributions to the game. Messi described Zidane as one of the greatest players in history, praising his elegance, skill, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. He fondly recalled Zidane’s iconic moments, such as his goal against Leverkusen in the Champions League final and his performances in the World Cup. Messi’s respect for Zidane’s talents transcends the rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s conversation with Zinedine Zidane shed light on his admiration for football legends and the significance of the number 10 jersey. His tribute to Diego Maradona, Juan Roman Riquelme, and Pablo Aimar showcases the profound impact these players had on Argentine football. Messi’s experience of not wearing the number 10 jersey at Paris Saint-Germain highlighted the sentimental value attached to the iconic number. Lastly, his respect for Zidane as a player and his contributions to the game demonstrate the mutual admiration shared between two footballing greats
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