In an extraordinary interview, Lionel Messi has shed light on the “confusion” Pep Guardiola’s style has introduced to football.
Messi, currently with Argentina for the defense of their Copa America title, discussed the impact of Guardiola’s approach ahead of Argentina’s second group game against Chile on Wednesday.
- ‘He’s going to be a genius’ – Neymar drools over Chelsea summer signing
- Rashford responds to Ten Hag decision by deciding his Man Utd future
- Liverpool player to become first exit under Arne Slot despite being offered new contract
Argentina started their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Canada, a match that left Jesse Marsch demanding fines due to Argentina’s conduct.
Messi and Guardiola share a legendary player-coach relationship, having achieved remarkable success together at Barcelona, including La Liga titles and Champions League triumphs.
Guardiola’s footballing philosophy has influenced many coaches, with Mikel Arteta adopting a similar style at Arsenal.
Other disciples of Guardiola, such as Enzo Maresca and Vincent Kompany, have also thrived, securing positions at Chelsea and Bayern Munich, respectively, after successful stints in the Championship.
However, Messi explained the “confusion” that surrounds Guardiola’s style.
“The Guardiola era has caused a bit of confusion. Everyone wants to play like that now,” he explained.
“They tell six/seven-year-olds to play with two touches, quickly. At that age, what happened with me needs to happen for these kids… we shouldn’t take away their spontaneity.”
But the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner ‘learned a lot’ from Guardiola, who taught the Argentine forward about tactics, spaces & ball possession.
“I didn’t pay much attention to tactics and with Guardiola I think I learned a lot,” he added.
“It was Guardiola who taught me a lot about tactics, spaces, ball possession.”
