Lionel Messi is a “silent leader” according to former Argentina manager Jorge Sampaoli, who also referred to him as a “genius” on the field.
When Jorge Sampaoli led the Argentina national team in the 2018 World Cup in Russia, he had the opportunity to work closely with Lionel Messi.
Despite some claims that the pair did not always see eye to eye, the coach continues to think highly of Messi as a footballing genius.
Argentina exited the 2018 World Cup after a 4-3 round-of-16 loss to France, but they are among the favorites to win the championship in Qatar later this year.
The trophy has so far eluded Messi, and it has been predicted that the 2022 World Cup will be his last at the international level.
What Did Sampaoli Say About Messi?
Speaking to Chilean outlet ADN Deportes, Sampaoli said: “Directing Messi is directing a genius, he is a person who is above everyone.
“He knows even when are you going to lose and when are you going to win? With two glances he gives you a parameter of what is happening, he is a silent leader, but he understands what is going to happen.
Lionel Messi with the Argentina national team. š¦š· pic.twitter.com/C9Silyn6uB
ā Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) September 21, 2022
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“He knows when the team that has prepared itself has no chance of winning, he knows, beyond his technical abilities and his ability to read the game, that’s why he’s a genius.”
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