Lionel Messi’s unparalleled talent continues to captivate fans and players alike, even as he dominates on a global stage with Inter Miami. Among those singing his praises is former Barcelona teammate Frenkie de Jong, who recently opened up about why Messi remains far ahead of “the rest.” De Jong’s insights shed light on the legendary forward’s exceptional skill, discipline, and influence, both on and off the field.
A Standard Above the Rest
In a candid interview, De Jong reflected on his time alongside Messi at Barcelona, where the Argentine maestro cemented his reputation as one of football’s greatest players. For De Jong, the explanation for Messi’s dominance is clear: his extraordinary commitment to excellence, particularly in training.
“Messi doesn’t just rely on natural talent,” De Jong said. “What sets him apart is his work ethic and his ability to raise the level of everyone around him.”
De Jong revealed that Messi’s intensity during training sessions mirrors his performances on the pitch. While many players reserve their full effort for match days, Messi approaches every drill, scrimmage, and exercise with the same focus and determination. “It’s not just about scoring or dribbling; it’s about the mindset he brings every single day,” De Jong explained.
Perfection in Preparation
The Dutch midfielder also highlighted Messi’s meticulous attention to detail. Whether perfecting free kicks, working on passing angles, or fine-tuning his positioning, Messi demonstrates a relentless pursuit of perfection.
“His standards in training are almost impossible to match,” De Jong shared. “He always pushes himself and others to be better, and that’s why he’s been at the top for so long.”
De Jong recalled moments at Barcelona when Messi’s ability to outthink and outplay his opponents became evident even in practice matches. “You’d think you had him figured out, and then he’d do something completely unexpected. It was like he saw things before they happened.”
Leadership Through Example
Although Messi’s quiet demeanor often leads to him being described as reserved, De Jong noted that his leadership style is far from passive. Messi inspires his teammates not with loud speeches but through his actions.
“Messi doesn’t have to say much,” De Jong explained. “His presence and the way he approaches everything set the tone for everyone else.”
At Inter Miami, Messi’s influence has been transformative. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has elevated the Major League Soccer side, leading them to newfound success and raising the profile of the league itself. His dedication to maintaining his elite standards has reportedly motivated younger players to emulate his habits, creating a culture of excellence.
Remarkable Longevity
Another aspect of Messi’s brilliance that De Jong emphasized is his ability to maintain peak performance over nearly two decades. While many players see their careers decline in their 30s, Messi continues to defy expectations.
“It’s not just about talent or hard work,” De Jong said. “It’s about how he’s managed his body and mind over the years. He knows when to push, when to rest, and how to keep evolving as a player.”
Messi’s recent exploits with Inter Miami underscore his enduring greatness. After guiding Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, he joined the MLS side and quickly made an impact, scoring breathtaking goals and providing pivotal assists. His ability to adapt to a new environment while maintaining his high standards is a testament to his professionalism and passion for the game.
A Legacy Beyond Compare
For De Jong, playing alongside Messi was a privilege and an education. “You learn so much just by watching him,” he said. “He’s a master of every aspect of the game, and that’s why he’s better than the rest.”
As Messi continues to shine with Inter Miami, his legacy grows ever larger. For fans, teammates, and aspiring players worldwide, he remains the gold standard—a living legend who proves that greatness is a blend of talent, work ethic, and an unyielding desire to improve.
In De Jong’s words: “Messi isn’t just a great player; he’s the greatest example of what it means to love the game and give it everything you’ve got.”
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