Lionel Messi talks Yamal, missed 2022 comeback, Guardiola and more – ‘My goal was to return’ | OneFootball

Lionel Messi has taken a moment to reflect on his unforgettable years at Barcelona, expressing deep admiration for the club that shaped his footballing life.

The legendary forward shared heartfelt memories from his early days at Camp Nou, spoke about his dream of returning, and also commented on the new generation of players currently making waves, including Lamine Yamal.

Messi looked back fondly on his first steps into the senior team at Barcelona, remembering the extraordinary atmosphere in the dressing room and the support he received from some of the biggest names in the sport.

“I always say that the first dressing room I entered was exceptional. I am very grateful for the welcome that everyone gave me: Ronaldinho, Deco, Sylvinho, as well as Xavi and Iniesta, who were there, and Puyol,” he shared.

He remembered the incredible feeling of winning the Champions League with Barcelona for the first time in years and how crucial Frank Rijkaard’s trust was in those early days.

“The fact that Rijkaard trusted me and made me part of that team was great for me, and I enjoyed it a lot,” he said.

Praise for former coach and teammates

Messi could have returned in 2022. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)

Messi also spoke highly of Pep Guardiola, the coach who shaped one of the greatest club sides in football history.

“Pep Guardiola is from another world. He’s different, he sees things that no one else sees. He changed football,” Messi said.

He even added that in trying to copy Guardiola’s Barcelona, others ended up doing more harm than good, because that team was simply one of a kind.

“Everyone wanted to copy us. In fact, in a way, he harmed football, because people tried to play like our Barcelona.

“But we were a special team… that midfield, Xavi, Busi, Iniesta, everything was perfect between the players and the coach.”

A missed homecoming and praise for Yamal

Following his World Cup triumph in 2022, Messi admitted he had one clear goal in mind: a return to Barcelona.

“After the World Cup, I couldn’t see myself playing for any other European team other than Barça. My goal was to return. To return to my home, where it all began. But unfortunately, that wasn’t possible,” he revealed.

Lionel Messi praised Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Even though a return never materialised, Messi continues to follow Barcelona closely. He spoke about how young players today are under constant attention and influence.

“Kids watch and imitate everything. They talk about current players like Mbappe, Vinicius, Haaland, Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal,” he said, noting how even the youngest talents now carry big expectations.

On Yamal, Messi had nothing but praise. “It’s impressive what Lamine Yamal is showing, what he’s doing and what he’s already done.

“He’s already been a Euro Cup champion with Spain. He’s only 17 years old, he’s in the middle of a growth process, and he’ll continue to grow as a player and contribute things to his game, just like I did.

“He has incredible qualities and is already one of the best players in the world,” he noted.

Source: Mundo Deportivo