How Messi’s Decade of Dominance Almost Never Happened

Lionel Messi’s retirement from international football sparked a mix of emotions, but one thing is undeniable – his decade-long reign as Argentina’s greatest player was almost cut short by his own doubts. In June 2016, at the age of 29, Messi announced that he had given everything and was done with the national team.

This declaration came on the heels of another Copa America final loss, a trend that had become all too familiar for the Argentine icon. The media and fans were quick to point out the obvious: Messi’s failure to deliver in big games had left him wanting. Diego Maradona, the legendary number 10 himself, questioned Messi’s leadership abilities. Critics even went so far as to say he lacked the character to be a leader.

However, just two years prior to this fateful announcement, Messi had already won eight La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with Barcelona. He was a five-time Ballon d’Or winner and still under 30. Maradona’s club career, on the other hand, never quite reached such heights. Yet, it was the criticism of Messi’s international performances that stuck, and he began to doubt his own abilities.

The turning point came when Edgardo Bauza, newly appointed Argentina coach, traveled to Barcelona to persuade Messi to reconsider his decision. The outpouring of support from fans and teammates, not to mention the Argentine government itself, made it impossible for Messi to resist. He would go on to play a further 94 times for Argentina, scoring 70 more goals and lifting four major trophies.

Messi’s doubts were almost a self-fulfilling prophecy. If he had stuck to his guns, who knows what might have happened? Would Argentina have continued to suffer on the international stage, or would they have found another hero to lead them forward?

The past decade has been a testament to Messi’s perseverance and work ethic. His ability to bounce back from adversity is something that many players can only dream of emulating. And yet, it’s also a reminder that even the greatest among us are not immune to self-doubt.

When Messi first announced his retirement, fans and pundits alike focused on his failures in four successive finals. However, they often overlooked the context – the pressure, expectation, and weight of history on his shoulders. It’s not that Messi didn’t want to win; it’s that he felt the burden of responsibility acutely.

Diego Maradona’s comments about Messi’s lack of personality were particularly biting, given their own complicated past. But as we now know, Maradona was wrong – Messi has grown into a leader who inspires devotion in those around him. His legacy is one that will be remembered for generations to come.

The reaction to Messi’s retirement announcement was nothing short of extraordinary. Fans took to the streets, pleading with him to reconsider his decision. The hashtag #NoTeVayasMessi trended on social media, and even the Argentine government got involved, with President Mauricio Macri speaking directly to Messi over the phone.

This outpouring of support was a testament to the power of love in football – not just for the game itself, but for the people who play it. Messi’s relationship with his fans is one of mutual respect and admiration; he has earned their devotion through his tireless dedication to the sport.

Messi’s retirement may mark the end of an era, but it also opens up new possibilities for Argentina and its players. Will they find another hero to lead them forward? Can they continue to build on the foundation laid by Messi over the past decade?

The answer is not yet clear, but one thing is certain – Lionel Messi will always be remembered as one of the greatest players in history. His legacy is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, perseverance and hard work can lead to greatness.

As we bid farewell to Messi’s international career, let us remember the lessons he has taught us: about leadership, love, and the enduring power of sport to inspire and unite us all.