Lionel Messi has not hidden his admiration for Zinédine Zidane, a legend who marked him throughout his career. In a recent interview, the Argentinian highlighted the elegance and talent of the Frenchman, whom he considers one of the best players in history.
“For me, Zidane is much more than a former opponent. It’s a source of inspiration. He had it all: elegance, magic, and an ability to change the course of matches. I remember his goal against Leverkusen in 2002, his moves and his performances in the World Cup,” said the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner. A statement full of respect for the man who left his mark on an entire generation.
Messi’s concern over the disappearance of the number 10 role
Beyond this tribute, Lionel Messi expressed a certain nostalgia for the role of number 10, played wonderfully by Zidane, Riquelme and Aimar. According to him, this position is disappearing in modern football, dominated by tactical systems like 4-3-3.
“Number 10, this player who makes the link between the midfield and the attack, is lost. It’s difficult to find players like that today. The Argentine vision of the number 10, which represented a certain romanticism, is disappearing,”
he regrets. Despite past rivalries between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, Messi recalls that respect and admiration between players remains essential.
