October 24, 2026
Argentine star Lionel Messi, the American Inter Miami player, revealed the real secret behind the success of the Spanish club Barcelona during its golden era, explaining that it was not limited to winning titles and championships only, but also extended to include the great pleasure that the players felt on and off the field.
In an interview with the Spanish news agency “Efe”, reported by the newspaper “Mundo Deportivo” and the “Goal” website, Messi stressed that the team was fortunate not only to achieve achievements, but also to enjoy the pleasure that accompanied playing and winning and even the daily training sessions, describing sharing the locker room with club legends such as Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, and Carles Puyol, as a great honor and an exceptional football and human experience.
The Argentine star acknowledged the difficulty of summarizing Barcelona’s status in a few words, pointing out that the club and the city have become an integral part of his life and personal memories, especially since his three children were born there, which explains his special love for this city.
On another level, Messi recalled the great role of his late father in his career, revealing the most important advice he received from him, which continued to accompany him throughout his journey. His father always urged him to catch the ball and try, regardless of success or failure, reminding him that “there is always another chance,” a philosophy based on perseverance and not giving up.
Regarding his most prominent achievements, Messi stressed that winning the World Cup with the Argentine national team in Qatar 2022 remains the most important and pinnacle title in his professional career, considering that achieving this dream and defeating France in the final represents the most precious achievement, noting that his goals in that match occupy a special place due to the quality and value of the occasion.
It is noteworthy that Messi is preparing to receive the “Princess of Asturias Award” for Sports for the year 2026, at an official ceremony that will be held in the Spanish city of Oviedo.
