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Messi: I am not the best but Pep is phenomenal and Barca has changed football

Angela Asante, November 23 2011,
The reason why Messi appears to be so humble is perhaps based on his opinion about the following: his status as a player, his respect for his colleagues and his admiration for coach.
Lionel Messi refuses to take good credits for himself.
Lionel Messi refuses to take good credits for himself.
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Related Articles: Lionel Messi, Pep Guardiola, Xavi, Iniesta, Milan, Barcelona
In an interview with Onze ahead of Barcelona’s enticing fixture away to AC Milan, the talisman shared his humble opinion with the public, stating:

“I don't consider myself the best in the world. If I am what they say, I repeat, it is thanks to my team-mates. We have done all this work together.”

Messi, who is a hot favorite to win the 2011 FIFA Ballon d’Or award, is in top form this season as well. However, many pundits believe his greatness is down to the influence of Spanish midfielders Xavi Hernandez and Iniesta. Lionel Messi had special comments for the duo:

“I have the great fortune to play with Xavi and Iniesta. They are players that I admire for their class and influence over the game. I have a very good relationship with them. They have become my friends.”

The combination of Lionel Messi, Xavi and Iniesta is the envy of most coaches in the world. Barcelona’s current team, led by ex-Barca B coach Pep Guardiola, is widely viewed as the image of La Masia’s best generation of players. For La Pulga, the Catalans will at the least leave their legacy in world football.

“I cannot judge the past teams or compare them and say we're the best team ever, but I think this team will be remembered for all the trophies we have won.

“This side has changed the course of the game and the vision of football and the way it is played. What is certain is that we will become legendary.”

According to Lionel Messi, Barcelona’s present greatness is due to one man in particular: Pep Guardiola. Messi said of the relatively young manager:

“Guardiola really is a phenomenon. Firstly, it’s because he has won everything. Secondly, he has concern for detail. His way of paying attention to even the most trivial things is fascinating.

“He leaves nothing to chance. He is without doubt the best coach in the world.”

There is at least one person who would disagree with Lionel Messi’s description of Pep Guardiola and this must be Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Tonight, the AC Milan striker will be reunite with the Catalans in a UEFA Champions League encounter.

Milan vs Barcelona

Date: Wednesday, 23 Nov 2011
Time: 14:45 ( US/Eastern )
Competition: UEFA Champions League
Live/Repeat: Live
Venue: Stadio Giuseppe Meazza (Milano)

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