SETTABLOID

Lionel Messi is undoubtedly the greatest player ever to grace the pitch for FC Barcelona and the most extraordinary talent La Masia has produced.

For years, he symbolised the dreams of millions, becoming an icon not just for Barcelona fans but for football enthusiasts worldwide.

His time at the club redefined what it meant to be a Barça player, setting a benchmark that may never be surpassed.

As the club celebrated their 125th anniversary, Messi shared his reflections with Mundo Deportivo, reminiscing about the highlights and individuals that shaped the rich history of the Catalan club.

His words resonate deeply, coming from someone who spent 21 unforgettable years with Barça, arriving as a 13-year-old dreamer and leaving as a legend at 34.

Messi’s journey at Barcelona was a testament to hard work, loyalty, and brilliance. He joined La Masia, the club’s famous youth academy, as a shy teenager from Rosario, Argentina.

Over the years, he grew into the club’s beating heart, leading Barcelona to unparalleled success. However, his departure in 2021 marked one of the most heartbreaking chapters in Barça’s history.

Forced to leave due to financial constraints and the club’s inability to renew his contract, Messi bid an emotional farewell to the place he called home for over two decades. Yet, his love for the club and its fans remains unwavering.

Messi still misses Barcelona

When asked about what message he would send to Barcelona fans, Messi’s response was heartfelt and filled with nostalgia. “I miss you

These simple yet profound words echo the deep bond he shares with the Blaugrana faithful. For Messi, Barcelona is more than just a football club—it is a family, a way of life, and a symbol of excellence.

Reflecting on the club’s legacy, Messi expressed his hopes for Barcelona’s future.

Barcelona’s strong start to the season has seen new boss Hansi Flick guide his team to the top of the table in Spain.

The Catalans have been in the goals throughout the campaign, with Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha currently battling it out for the Pichichi trophy.

Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo have also played starring roles in attack to help Barca into a strong position ahead of the festive period.

Defensively the team have also impressed, particularly with Flick’s high defensive line that has been a feature of the team’s play.

A surprise stat has also emerged regarding the team’s backline. After 21 games in all competitions, Barca are yet to concede a single goal from a corner.

Flick’s side have given up 98 corners but have succcessfully defended their goal each time and are yet to be breached for that particular set piece so far.

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick rested Robert Lewandowski against Real Mallorca and came close to giving Raphinha the night off too.

The Brazilian ended up starting the game and was the star for Barca, scoring twice in a much-needed victory for the Catalans giants at Son Moix.

Flick spoke about his selection decisions after the game and revealed Raphinha talked him out of being rested.

“We also thought about giving Rapha a rest. But we spoke to him and he said he was fine. And he really proved that tonight,” he said with a laugh.

Raphinha now has 11 goals and six assists in 16 La Liga games for Barcelona in what is proving to be an incredible campaign for the Brazilian forward.

Flick will surely have to give Raphinha a rest at some point but, on current form, he’s looking pretty undroppable ahead of tests against Real Betis and Borussia Dortmund.

Barcelona are interested in signing Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot next summer. However, the Spanish club might face stiff competition from their arch-rivals Real Madrid in the pursuit of the full-back.

Diogo Dalot is an established name

Diogo Dalot is considered as one of the best full-backs in the world amongst his age group. He had to stuggle for game-time in his initial days at Manchester United. But he became a mainstay in the squad under the guidance of Erik ten Hag.

Dalot continues to play a key role for the English giants despite a managerial change. He has already featured in 21 games this season, having two assists to his name. He is averaging 0.6 shots, 1.1 key passes, and 0.7 dribbles per game (stats via whoscored).

The Portuguese right-back is versatile enough to feature on the left side of the defence or even in the midfield. He is known for his strength, raw pace, accurate passing and solid defensive traits. He also has good dribbling skills and often does well in aerial duels.

Diogo Dalot can be a good addition

Barcelona’s interest in Diogo Dalot is quite surprising but makes sense at the same time. They already have Jules Kounde who has done well as the right-back despite being a centre-back. However, they surely lack quality on the bench.

Hence, the arrival of Dalot will surely strengthen the Spanish side’s overall squad. He can take up the right-back role or even provide his services on the left side. Moreover, his playing style will be well suited for Hansi Flick’s system.