Messi's Versatility: A Defensive Perspective
Lionel Messi, renowned as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has sparked discussions about his potential impact in a defensive role. Javier Mascherano, Messi's former teammate at Barcelona, believes that if Messi were to play as a defender, he would still be considered the best in the world. This assertion stems from Mascherano's firsthand experience of training alongside Messi, where he witnessed Messi's exceptional skills not only in attack but also in defense.
Mascherano stated, "If Messi was a defender he would be the best in the world. At Barcelona, we sometimes played one-on-one, and it was impossible to dribble past him. He defended very well because he was very fast." This perspective highlights Messi's agility and tactical awareness, qualities that could translate effectively to a defensive position.
Guardiola's Take on Messi's Defensive Skills
Adding to Mascherano's insights, Pep Guardiola, who coached Messi at Barcelona, echoed similar sentiments about Messi's adaptability on the field. Guardiola, who led Barcelona to numerous titles, including two Champions League victories, remarked in 2013 that Messi could excel in any position, including defense. He noted, "If you put him as a left-back, he would be just as good; he is the best defender in the world." This statement underlines the remarkable versatility of Messi, suggesting that his football intelligence and skill set are not limited to attacking roles.
Current Success in MLS
Currently, Messi is making waves in the Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami, where he has continued to showcase his extraordinary talent. Recently nominated for the league's best player award, Messi has recorded an impressive 17 goals and 15 assists in just 18 matches. His ability to adapt and thrive in different environments further cements his legacy as a football icon, regardless of the position he plays.
