Managing Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is one of the greatest players Barcelona and Argentina have ever had. So why is there a sudden friction between the two entities in charge of his professional future?
According to ESPN, “El Paton” Bauza, Head Coach of Argentina, was critical of Barcelona for playing Messi in four games in 12 days despite a groin injury in his other leg that limited him earlier in the season.He says, “Barcelona always sends us messages saying that we must take care of Messi, but they don’t take care of him very well.” He later said he envisions playing the Argentine team without Messi because of Barcelona’s incompetence. Now, we have the ingredients for a full-blown war of words between the two.
For Barcelona’s part Luis Enrique has said, “The only reality of the situation is that everyone is looking out for the best for the player.” Now, while Bauza began the war of words it’s nice to see Luis Enrique take the high road with his response. Messi will likely miss 3 games for Barcelona and two games for the national team of Argentina.
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Now, we can argue which side is correct in the matter. However, the truth is both sides are to blame for being so hard on one of the greatest gifts soccer has ever produced. It’s no secret he is a highly competitive player and wants to play every match. Because of this, both sides have to account for his health as it benefits both of them.
Managing Messi is not an easy feat to accomplish. Being a world-class player means more games, more demand, and higher expectations. To begin limiting his appearances would go against his wishes and managing him would be harder with an agitated Messi. What’s true is if Messi wants to and he is physically cleared by doctors, he will play no matter the wear and tear he has endured.
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While Messi can show toughness playing through injury, we all know that its likely not a smart decision to do so. As a player of his caliber, he is allowed these freedoms that maybe other players would not have. Messi deciding whether he can play or not is what’s best for both parties even if one or both do not agree with it.