Lionel Messi reportedly had to ‘score all the time’ at Barcelona or he ‘wasn’t happy’, according to insights shared by his former teammate, Samuel Umtiti, who played alongside the Argentine legend at Camp Nou. Umtiti, who joined the club in 2016 and remained until Messi’s departure in 2021, observed Messi’s unmatched dedication and desire for perfection on the pitch.

Messi’s Approach to Training and Performance

Throughout five seasons, Messi consistently scored over 30 goals, surpassing even the 50-goal mark in specific campaigns. During his tenure, Messi aided Barcelona in clinching multiple La Liga and Copa del Rey titles, showcasing his humble nature to inspire his teammates and set high standards.

Umtiti on Messi’s Unique Talents

Samuel Umtiti highlighted Messi’s mindset, saying, ‘As a person, he is top. Even after achieving greatness, he doesn’t see himself as superior to anyone.’ Umtiti remarked that Messi was not satisfied unless he contributed to the score sheet, noting, ‘If we won 4-0 and he didn’t score, he wasn’t happy.’ This relentless pursuit is characteristic of elite athletes.

Collaborating with Legends

Umtiti’s experience at Barcelona included playing with renowned players like Luis Suarez and Neymar, and he acknowledged Gerard Pique’s impressive defensive abilities. Barcelona’s focus on performance allows players to concentrate solely on football, ensuring a professional atmosphere that Umtiti appreciated.

Conclusion

From humble beginnings to dominating both domestic and international stages, Barcelona has emphasized the importance of maintaining a grounded attitude, as noted by Umtiti. The emphasis on humility among players differentiates the club from other teams in Europe.