English
Messi deserved to win because his game is always honest and clean, and he doesn’t just look out for himself, but the whole team. Because he is able to save a match with just a window of opportunity, and often manages to come up with a brand new move for taking possession of the ball – making it almost impossible for the opposing team to recover it. Also, he’s quick – at any moment, he might change his pace and defeat an arch rival with perfect ball control – another of his virtues: he moves the ball as though it were an extension of his legs: hiding it, switching sides – Messi is difficult to tackle. And if he does lose the ball, he always helps to get it back, much to the rival team’s worry.
This is Messi’s second consecutive win of the FIFA Golden Ball, having gained a majority vote from the sporting world. Though fellow nominees Xavi and Iniesta were also favourites, everyone agrees that any one of the three players would have been worthy recipients of the trophy.
Unlike last year, when Messi far outshone Cristiano Ronaoldo, this year things haven’t seemed as secure for the Argentinian footballer, especially based on his performance with his team, but he has nevertheless remained a standout player, winning a lot of support from Spanish fans after Spain took home the World Cup this year in South Africa.
Despite the fact that the tabloid press has branded Messi’s win ‘a slap in the face of Spanish football’ the truth of the matter is that FC Barcelona has been the real winner of the year, with three of its star players, having trained in Barcelona, amongst the best in the world.
Lionel Messi’s success story dates back to childhood. When it was suspected that his short height might hold back his football career, FC Barcelona offered to place him under their care, with the hope that he might grow a bit taller.
And indeed, Messi did grow taller in Barcelona, whilst also learning his discipline, and getting the opportunity to dedicate his life to his beloved game – and then going on to win the Golden Ball twice in a row. Perhaps now the only thing that remains, to make him one of the greatest footballers in history is to bring his native country world-cup victory. All those of us who enjoy watching Messi’s game hopes that he gets the opportunity to do this, because above all, he is an honest, sensible man who is easy to like.
Miruton
A visit to Barcelona wouldn´t be complete without a visit to Camp Nou. You can rent Barcelona accommodation and discover a city that is in its football prime.
Translated by: Poppy
