PDF Summary:Messi, by Guillem Balague

Messi, by Guillem Balague, delves into the life and career of the legendary footballer Lionel Messi. From his humble beginnings in Argentina to his rise through the ranks of Barcelona's youth academy and eventual superstardom, the book offers an intimate look into Messi's journey. It explores the sacrifices made by his family, the mentors who shaped his development, and the personal challenges he faced along the way.

Balague also examines Messi's complex relationship with the Argentine national team, the burden of comparisons to Maradona, and his decision to leave Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain. The author sheds light on Messi's transition to a new environment, his evolving priorities, and his recent move to Inter Miami as he enters the twilight of his career.

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Balague emphasizes Messi's 2007 slalom goal against Getafe, which demonstrated his vision, speed, and trickery, and he points out its resemblance to a well-known event, but Messi maintains that he did not set out to replicate Maradona's legendary run through England's defense in the 1986 World Cup. Balague highlights the fact that, since the age of twelve, Leo has been scoring goals of similar caliber, even while competing against opponents two years his senior. Lionel Messi's hallmark scoring technique is widely recognized as the 'Messi Goal'.

Messi has the ability to change direction and accelerate in fractions of a second, and often gets past two to three top-level players in the process. His exceptional mind-body coordination confers upon him extraordinary physical advantages. Improving Leo's overall fitness was essential, not only because it significantly boosted his quickness and nimbleness but also because it was key in reducing the likelihood of further muscular injuries.

Unique Technical Abilities include the ability to interpret the game, foresee developments, and make choices based on instinct.

Lionel Messi has an innate understanding of the complex structure of soccer, seeing more than just the players and the ball on the field. The author, Guillem Balague, asserts that. His impeccable foresight into the game's progression enables him to strategically place himself in response to the dynamics playing out on the field. Footballers have an inherent skill for making instantaneous choices during a game, choices that are beyond the scope of mere training. The psychologist Matthew Syed describes this phenomenon as 'advanced instinctual understanding'.

Lionel Messi's innate talent for the game, combined with his tactical acumen and a robust physical condition that has withstood the demands of elite soccer for over a decade and a half, has allowed him to amass 793 goals and provide more than 350 assists, cementing his status as one half of the most prolific scoring and assisting partnership in the history of the sport.

Dedication to Improvement: The '10,000-hour Rule', Constant Practice, and the Drive for Unmatched Excellence

Lionel Messi's unwavering commitment to perfecting his craft has consistently revealed new and masterful skills that have captured Valdano's attention. The journey to maintaining exceptional performance is extensive and without any quick routes, marked by the relentless commitment of a sportsperson who dedicates innumerable hours to honing his skills, along with rigorous self-examination.

Balague portrays Lionel Messi's commitment to refining his skills through an extensive period of training, amounting to ten thousand hours, illustrating the principle that excellence in any field, whether it's music, science, or sports, can be attained with deep and sustained practice, an idea examined by psychologist Malcolm Gladwell in his book "Outliers: The Story of Success." From his first steps, Leo developed an unbreakable bond with a soccer ball, establishing the groundwork for his abilities well before his association with Barcelona began. By the time Messi had been playing for ten years, he had accumulated over 10,000 hours of practice, being part of six distinct squads, including Grandoli in his hometown and progressing through the levels of Newell's Old Boys—a club where his journey might have extended if they had funded his hormone therapy—and various echelons within Barcelona, advancing from the youth teams to the reserve sides, ultimately leading to his debut season with the senior team. His steadfast dedication and determination, initially evident in his early years, persist within him to this very day. I aim to persistently enhance my skills and strive for ongoing triumphs. Messi conveyed his resolve to craft additional unforgettable moments after completing his ninth season as part of Barcelona's elite team.

Other Perspectives

• While Messi's individual skills are indeed extraordinary, it's important to acknowledge that football is a team sport, and his success is also a product of the talented teammates and the cohesive systems within which he has played.
• Messi's left foot is exceptional, but focusing solely on this aspect may overlook the importance of his right foot and other skills, such as his vision, decision-making, and teamwork, which are equally important to his overall game.
• The comparison of Messi's goal to Maradona's could overshadow Messi's unique contributions to the sport and his own distinctive style of play, which should be celebrated in its own right.
• Technical abilities like game interpretation and foresight are crucial, but they must be complemented by physical fitness, emotional resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure to truly excel in the sport.
• The '10,000-hour Rule' is a popular concept, but recent research suggests that while practice is essential, factors such as genetics, coaching quality, and the age at which training starts also play significant roles in an athlete's success.
• Messi's dedication to improvement is commendable, but it's also important to recognize the role of rest, recovery, and a balanced lifestyle in sustaining long-term performance and avoiding burnout.

Representing Argentina in football comes with the inevitable comparisons to Maradona.

This segment of the story explores the intricate and occasionally conflicting bond between Argentinians and their beloved icon, resulting in a divided opinion where he is either idolized or scorned. Balague determines that the problem is rooted in the Argentine fans who find it difficult to come to terms with Messi's transfer to Barcelona and his attainment of peak success at a considerable distance from his homeland.

Lionel Messi's path was marked by a complex relationship with the national football team of his homeland.

Lionel Messi's path with the Argentine football squads began in 2005 with the Under 20 team and has faced many hurdles, difficulties, and criticisms specific to Argentina. Their steadfast commitment to their teams and the sense of obligation to triumph in every World Cup event might illuminate this phenomenon.

Early Challenges and Public Criticism: Adapting to diverse soccer strategies, coping with the pressure to replicate Maradona's successes, and handling the rigorous scrutiny from media outlets.

Like all young players, Messi underwent an initiation process where his teammates evaluated his skills and mettle. Many questioned his capabilities, considering them overstated, and there were individuals who disapproved of his choice to depart from Argentina in his adolescence to seek triumph in a foreign land. The exit took place before the event in question. Right from the beginning of the practice sessions, Zabaleta notes a unanimous recognition among his peers of his exceptional talent.

Lionel Messi felt a profound weight of responsibility to match Maradona's achievements, and this feeling intensified with the scrutiny following Argentina's series of letdowns in numerous tournaments. In the period leading up to the 2010 World Cup, there was a strong focus on his dedication to his country, amid accusations that he did not display enough Argentine patriotism and chose not to vocalize the national anthem, along with subdued whispers about the potential of him being on the Asperger's spectrum.

During the 2010 World Cup, Lionel Messi stepped forward as a guiding force, amid strategic discord and subsequent disenchantment.

In October 2008, the esteemed Maradona, frequently compared to Messi, took on the unexpected position of Argentina's national team's head coach. His inclusion in the national squad and the choice of his reliable associates were perceived as fulfilling a dual purpose. He received widespread acclaim for his accomplishment. If the circumstances continued, Diego would be incapable of expressing dissent towards the authorities. Messi frequently interacted with a diverse range of individuals, and despite Maradona's high regard for Messi and his good intentions, their relationship was mainly defined by divergent views on tactics. Maradona saw in Leo the quintessence of leadership, a trait that he also embodied. Messi recognized that he wasn't the type of player they were looking for. He steered the team with his distinctive approach, diverging from the anticipated role of a conductor or leader that Diego had predicted.

Messi willingly accepted the challenge of representing his country, despite the inevitable scrutiny that comes with being an Argentinian player, especially an 18-year-old tasked with wearing the iconic number 10 jersey. His relatives provided their backing as well. Reflecting on the past, it's evident that their collective experience was insufficient. Between 2008 and 2010, a prevailing sense of pessimism persisted, and even Messi's participation in the World Cup did not alleviate this sentiment, as his performance there did not match the extraordinary level he regularly exhibited playing for Barcelona. In his first game representing his country against Hong Kong, he received a red card, and while he played a pivotal role in generating chances during the early stages of the World Cup, these contributions did not lead to benefits for the squad when they were defeated by Germany in the quarter-finals.

Under Sabella and Scaloni's guidance, alterations in the way the team functioned laid the foundation for their victory in the Copa América.

Messi's calmness and contentment regarding Argentina are rooted in his successes with Barcelona, which have not only enhanced his performance but also fostered his individual development. His acclaim stemmed from an extraordinary comprehension of the game in a team context. Perhaps the supporters from Argentina were now prepared to embrace him without reservations, recognizing him not as the next Maradona, but simply as Lionel Messi.

When Sabella took on the job in 2012, he created a team for his captain without demanding pronouncements from him, but rather allowing his play to illuminate the squad. The result was a triumphant advancement to the 2014 World Cup held in Brazil. As Messi's influence in the realm of football expanded, he assumed a more central position in the dynamics of the game. Under Sabella's guidance, the team embarked on their pursuit of the World Cup following a period of fifteen months without experiencing a loss. But their World Cup adventure ended without the title. Lionel Messi was awarded the Golden Ball as a form of consolation. The team, while showing admirable resolve, acknowledged their collective limitations even as they operated at their utmost capacity. The Argentine team began to experience a downturn following their defeat in the 2014 final.

Approaches and tactics in football can vary widely.

As Argentina faced economic challenges, opinions were divided regarding the identity of the top football player. The book by Balague underscores the notion that, despite his unmatched skill in modern football, Leo Messi has yet to eclipse Maradona, partly because his more subdued personality doesn't evoke the intense admiration that Diego received, with fans generally preferring a figure that embodies national pride over a mere sports idol.

Messi's subtle resolve and exemplary leadership stand in stark contrast to Maradona's emotional guidance and dynamic charm.

Maradona is often seen as the epitome of Argentina's essence, whereas Messi, who personifies characteristics such as determination, perseverance, and skill, is considered an outsider. Diego excels in expressing himself not only through his eloquent dialogue but also through his adept performance during the game. His life, much as his approach to the game, is defined by splendor and distinction. Leo's life is characterized by a fondness for simplicity and a tendency towards privacy. His existence seemed more ordinary.

The enormous burden associated with donning Argentina's number ten jersey.

Messi stresses the importance of recognizing his soccer talents instead of being celebrated as an emblem of national pride, underscoring that he is not a replacement for the iconic Diego, and that such comparisons should come to an end. He desires to be perceived by the world in that manner. In Argentina, the number 10 is laden with a messianic significance, a responsibility that fell upon Messi's shoulders when Maradona passed it on to him in 2009. Before Messi's rise, players like Ortega, Gallardo, Aimar, and Riquelme bore the weight of anticipation yet did not reach the pinnacle of 'the greatest,' even though they were acknowledged as 'good'. Lionel Messi faced this obstacle as well.

Navigating the profound heritage and aiming for national acclaim left in Maradona's wake.

Argentina is still grappling with the loss of Maradona, a sentiment echoed by Sacheri in a well-known sports publication. Argentina's football scene is characterized by a deep yearning for its glorious past and an eager anticipation for a fresh talent to revive its former triumphs. Is it possible that we will ever observe such skillfulness once more?

Other Perspectives

• While representing Argentina does invite comparisons to Maradona, it's also true that each player brings their own unique style and contributions to the team, and comparisons may not always be fair or accurate.
• Messi's relationship with the Argentine national team may be complex, but it has also been marked by mutual respect and admiration, as well as significant achievements that have contributed to his legacy.
• The early challenges and public criticism faced by Messi could be seen as a natural part of any athlete's career, especially one with such high expectations placed upon them from a young age.
• The weight of responsibility to match Maradona's achievements could be interpreted as a motivational factor for Messi, pushing him to excel and grow as a player.
• Messi's emergence as a guiding force during the 2010 World Cup could be viewed as a testament to his leadership qualities and ability to rise to the occasion, despite any strategic discord.
• The victory in the Copa América under Sabella and Scaloni's guidance could be attributed to the collective effort of the team and not solely to changes in team functioning.
• Messi's calmness and contentment with Argentina might not only stem from his successes with Barcelona but also from his personal growth and maturity over the years.
• The assertion that Messi's leadership style is subtle in comparison to Maradona's emotional guidance could be seen as an oversimplification, as leadership can manifest in various forms and both styles can be effective in different contexts.
• The burden associated with wearing Argentina's number ten jersey is significant, but it could also be perceived as an honor and a privilege, inspiring players to perform at their best.
• The challenge of navigating the heritage left by Maradona and aiming for national acclaim could be viewed as an opportunity for new players to forge their own paths and contribute to the team's legacy in their own way.

Lionel Messi's move from his longstanding association with Barcelona to the beginning of his tenure with Paris Saint-Germain.

This concluding part of the narrative explores the time from 2020 to June 2023, shedding light on how Lionel Messi's personality developed as he took on leadership responsibilities for both his club and the Argentine national team. When he won his fifth Ballon d'Or in 2016, Leo claimed that he would much rather have won another World Cup, something that would have been inconceivable in the years before when his only intention was to be playing first team football. As he moved forward in time, various encounters molded him into a more well-rounded individual, influencing his journey in professional soccer as well as his personal growth.

Lionel Messi's conflict with the club from Barcelona.

Messi's discontent surfaced after experiencing a series of disappointing outcomes, first in the league, then being bested by Valencia in the Copa del Rey final, and finally suffering a defeat in the Champions League semi-finals against Liverpool, which escalated into a dispute with Barcelona that peaked in the summer of 2020, driven by his view that the club was not making adequate strides to bolster the squad. Despite expectations to consider the counsel given, the Barcelona board, led by President Josep Maria Bartomeu, decided to disregard it.

The Controversy Surrounding His Decision to Change Clubs and the Notorious Burofax Event: Examining the club's financial situation and how the pandemic has impacted its contractual commitments.

Balague contends that, after a disastrous final season ending without any silverware and punctuated by a crushing defeat to Bayern Munich, Messi's relationship with the club had been damaged beyond repair. The sportsman utilized the provision outlined in clause 3.I, allowing him to switch teams without any monetary penalties, when his agreement was approaching its end in the summer of 2021. However, clause 3.I specified that this provision would cease to apply from June 10, 2020. On the date in question, Messi did not comment, yet his family and attorney contended that the extension of the season into August because of the COVID-19 pandemic warranted a corresponding extension of the deadline.

Barcelona firmly held to the stipulation that Messi could only leave if the €700-million release clause in his contract was met. The entity hesitated to initiate legal proceedings for an amount they considered excessive, convinced that LaLiga's regulations entitled them to financial recompense for the loss of an employee under contract until the end of the 2020-2021 season.

The worsening rapport with the club's executives, worsened by Bartomeu's poor governance, the neglect of Messi's viewpoint, and the repercussions of Neymar's departure.

Despite Messi's appeals for a more robust team, which he made both openly and behind closed doors, the board neglected his advice and did not succeed in putting together a squad capable of achieving victory in the Champions League. Balague contends that this event set off a chain reaction culminating in Leo's exit from the team. The event happened simultaneously with another incident that ignited hostility between the sportsman and the institution.

In August 2017, Neymar's association with Barcelona concluded as PSG activated his release clause, amounting to €222 million. Messi would never blame his ex-teammate or the former club president Josep Maria Bartomeu; however, he viewed Neymar's move to Paris and his own subsequent switch to PSG as a significant disruption in soccer, convinced that the club's necessity for Neymar surpassed the player's necessity for the club. The decision was made by FC Barcelona without obtaining the Messi family's prior approval. The tendency of the organization to misuse financial resources without strategic consideration was apparent, despite the president's promise to return the club to its previous esteemed status, a situation Messi saw as representative of this recurring issue. It was also a reminder that as a footballer had to be constantly reminded of his worth to the club. He requested an updated agreement.

Conversations about his possible transfer to England occurred in 2017. The team pledged to align his compensation with his importance to the squad. The talks culminated dramatically when, in December 2019, Vice-President Javier Faus openly dismissed the possibility of a new contract for the player, an action which Leo promptly criticized, even though he professed to be happy with his current squad. After the club signed Antoine Griezmann for an impressive 120 million, Lionel Messi swiftly ascended to the position of the team's second-highest earner. Rumors suggested the squad was already equipped with players for that position.

Lionel Messi's choice to depart from Barcelona carried significant weight, as he bid farewell to a place he regarded as 'home,' yet he held onto the hope of returning in the future.

In the story, Balague explores the sequence of occurrences that culminated in Messi's heartfelt departure from FC Barcelona. Jorge represented Leo at the first meeting, which also included Joan Laporta, the president of the club. Lionel Messi's father made it clear that the decision for his son to leave Barcelona was made collectively by the family. His path in soccer led to a peaceful and calm setting. The head of state rejected the proposal quickly and without any hesitation. Your home will remain in Barcelona. He believed that financial considerations, along with his father's preference for Barcelona, would ultimately persuade him to accept the terms set by the club. The athlete and his father stood firm, choosing not to pressure Barcelona to enforce the €700 million release clause, because they wanted to maintain the spirit of the initial contract, although they believed that the significance of the 10th of June deadline had diminished. Although Messi could have chosen to leave, the club had not considered the possibility of his transfer and a specific sum would have been necessary. A decision led to the sending of a burofax.

During that specific day in August, Messi allocated moments throughout his schedule for mandatory interviews at different venues, as well as ensuring he had opportunities to enjoy the company of his spouse Antonela and their offspring. Before leaving for Camp Nou in Barcelona, he asked someone to buy a five-pack of tissues, foreseeing their use. He left then. During his last event representing Barcelona, an emotionally stirred Leo Messi spoke to the audience. The address was heartfelt and stirred a sense of longing, cementing the reality that, against expectations, everyone wished the circumstances could have been otherwise. A period reached its conclusion. The next day, the tale was clear from the empty seats adorned in blue and claret at the famous stadium of Barcelona.

Messi's shift to becoming a part of PSG: Facing New Challenges and Adjusting Ambitions.

With the arrival of summer in 2023, Messi's tenure at PSG, characterized by challenges and upheaval, came to an end. The family looked forward to a more relaxed way of life in Paris, one that would ease the burden and lighten the duties, particularly for their patriarch.

Adjusting to fresh surroundings and the distinct dynamics of a diverse squad: Cultural Transition, Relationships with colleagues, and the approach to coaching employed by Pochettino.

The Messi family undertook a difficult quest over a period of several months to find an appropriate place to live. Occasionally feeling isolated, Leo started learning French, coinciding with his children's initiation into international schooling. Taking his children to school provided him with precious moments at home, serving as a respite and a short distraction from his sports career. Their daily routine was mainly focused on attending to the well-being and requirements of their children. After their period spent in Barcelona, they adopted a more relaxed way of life.

Messi faced comparable challenges as he adjusted to a new cultural setting, one in which the Parisian media distinguished him from his peers. Mauricio Pochettino, the coach from Argentina, and the players from France displayed a more subdued form of recognition, appearing hesitant to part with any of the acclaim they had worked hard to earn. Lionel Messi was entrusted with the freedom to move at will in the PSG offense, alongside luminaries such as Kylian Mbappé and Neymar Jr., with Pochettino counting on his tactical wisdom to augment an attack line that was already formidable without upsetting the team's equilibrium.

The escalating prominence of Mbappé, along with the eagerness of the fans and his decision to part ways with PSG, was underscored by the letdown experienced in their pursuit of success in Europe's most prestigious soccer tournament.

In Messi's first season, the anticipation of triumph did not translate into Paris securing any titles. As the new season began with Christophe Galtier at the helm, Messi reconsidered his decision to join PSG, taking into account the rising prominence of Kylian Mbappé. After several seasons with PSG, the performance of the French forward in the 2018 tournament in Russia established him as the preeminent player, outshining Neymar and seeming ready to become the main beneficiary of the Emirate's substantial support. Messi came to realize that the club's primary focus was emerging – their quest for success took precedence over acknowledging the individuals who played a role in their victories.

During his two-year tenure in Paris, Messi had a considerable impact on domestic contests, but this impact did not carry over to the Champions League, an event the team was eager to emphasize to his advantage. Paris Saint-Germain clearly required the creation of a new identity, which meant distancing itself from key figures instrumental in the club's past achievements. Messi did not regard that path as the correct one to take.

Personal Growth and Evolving Priorities: Finding Happiness through a serene lifestyle centered on family and personal well-being.

After the 2014 World Cup, Messi's growth was significantly influenced by his role as a parent. His move to Paris led to a profound change in his outlook as he contemplated his past. Lionel Messi's achievements with both his club team and the national team provided him the opportunity to reevaluate his situation, shifting his focus away from the obsession with being the top player. What was missing? What ensued? He was introduced to ideas that were completely new to him.

Leo demonstrated a steadfast determination to triumph right from his initial contests when he was just five years old. Lionel Messi encountered a scenario beyond his familiar grounds, confronting the potential end of his football career, a prospect he had never before considered. He understood that his physical state might lead to a slower pace eventually, but he remained hopeful about competing effectively for several more years. He also had to factor in the well-being of his family, especially his children. Leo is aware that accolades and fame are hollow without the treasured company of his family—his parents, siblings, and above all, Antonela, his spouse, as well as their children.

Starting a fresh chapter with Inter Miami.

In the summer of 2023, Messi announced his intention to join Inter Miami, a team that participates in Major League Soccer. He aimed to test his limits on the field; however, unexpected events hastened his progress by two or maybe even three years. The choice was influenced more by the rejection of alternative paths than by ambition, following an unsuccessful endeavor to return to Barcelona after a tumultuous two-year period in Paris.

Involvement from his relatives and the allure of Major League Soccer influenced the decision-making process.

Lionel Messi's decision to join Major League Soccer was shaped by more than just monetary considerations; he was also seeking a specific way of life and peace, even though he had proposals from Paris and Barcelona.

Aspirations and Practicality: Setting objectives for the future, adjusting to different competitive environments, and devising a sustainable plan specifically tailored for the unique needs of Inter Miami.

Messi has always loved a challenge and he will do all he can to lift Miami up to the status of a great club, at least in American terms. The fact is widely recognized by those living in Miami. The club should assess Messi's achievements by employing the same standards used in European contests, considering the great expectations tied to his arrival at the team.

Exploring aspects of existence outside the realm of soccer: Balancing Personal and Professional Life, Dedication to Family, and Plans for Retirement

For some time, Leo had been considering what path his life would take following his retirement from football. The agreement he has with Adidas is set to conclude in 2023. He has committed to a five-season tenure with Inter Miami, after which he will transition into a management role within the club. Lionel Messi alone will decide when to conclude his career in football, even though he has a strong support system.

Other Perspectives

• While Messi expressed discontent with Barcelona's performance, it could be argued that the club was facing financial constraints and strategic challenges that made immediate strengthening of the squad difficult.
• The conflict with Barcelona might also be seen as a natural consequence of the high-pressure environment of top-tier football, where results are expected and any failure can lead to tensions between players and management.
• Messi's decision to leave could be viewed as a personal choice for a new challenge rather than solely the result of poor governance or the club's failure to take his advice.
• Neymar's departure from Barcelona was a business decision that clubs often have to make, and it could be argued that it was not solely responsible for Messi's eventual exit.
• The challenges Messi faced at PSG, including adjusting to a new cultural setting and squad dynamics, are common for any player moving to a new club, especially one with high expectations.
• The rising prominence of Mbappé at PSG could be seen as healthy competition within the team, which is typical in sports clubs with multiple star players.
• PSG's focus on success over individuals could be defended as a strategic approach to building a strong team ethos rather than relying on star power alone.
• Messi's lack of Champions League success at PSG might be attributed to the unpredictable nature of football and not necessarily a reflection of his personal performance or the club's direction.
• The decision to join Inter Miami could be critiqued as a step down in competitive terms compared to European football, which might not align with Messi's ambition and skill level.
• The idea that Messi will lift Inter Miami to the status of a great club could be overly optimistic, considering the different competitive environments and the fact that success in sports is never guaranteed.
• Messi's plans for a management role post-retirement could be seen as premature, as success as a player does not always translate to success in management.