The legendary Lionel Messi has unveiled an astonishing vision for his life after retiring as a professional footballer. While many fans and experts anticipated his debut as a manager, Messi has made it clear that he intends to contribute to the football world as a club owner instead. This decision is seen not merely as a career choice, but as a bold declaration to continue his football philosophy and legacy in a new way.
Messi's statement that he doesn't see himself as a manager is intriguing. As a player with one of the best football IQs in the world, there were high expectations that his tactical insights would shine in a managerial role. However, akin to the old football adage that the best players don’t always make the best managers, it seems Messi is keen on making an impact in his unique domain. Considering that a manager's role entails high levels of stress and responsibility with immediate tactical shifts, squad management, and media handling, his decision is understandable. He might be aiming to contribute to the sport with a broader, long-term perspective from off the pitch.
His vision focuses on establishing a club dedicated to offering growth opportunities to youth players. This goal is deeply connected to Messi’s own background. Having developed into the world’s best player through Barcelona’s La Masia youth system, Messi understands the importance of nurturing young talents. If Messi were to run a club, the club’s DNA would likely be deeply embedded with his football philosophy of attack-minded play through ball possession and his emphasis on creativity in training. It represents not just a focus on developing players but an attempt to realize the ideal form of football he envisions. The club is expected to emphasize enhancing both technical proficiency and tactical understanding among young players.
Messi has already taken the first steps towards this vision. His involvement with Luis Suarez in the Uruguayan fourth division team Deportivo LSM shows that his intentions are beyond mere plans. This could be seen as a laboratory to understand grassroots football and gain practical club management experience. Additionally, Messi owns a stake in his current team Inter Miami, indicating his growing interest and understanding of football business and club management. His experience with Inter Miami will provide valuable knowledge and networks necessary for managing future clubs. Although his contract with Inter Miami extends to 2028, his interest in club management will likely deepen.
Even at 38, Messi remains at peak performance, yet his time as a player is limited. His future journey as a club owner is predicted to make a significant impact in the football world. Beyond just investing capital, Messi's leadership, driven by a profound understanding and passion for football, will offer immense motivation to youth players. His reputation and influence could act as a powerful magnet for young talent, setting new standards in youth football systems worldwide. From a tactical point of view, he will likely have a clear philosophy for the style of play his team should adopt, greatly affecting the club’s identity and success in the long run.
Ultimately, Messi’s vision demonstrates his will to be recognized not just as a great player but as a pioneer setting new paths for football development. His tactical legacy will not only shine on the field but will also be profoundly delivered to the next generation of football stars through the systems and philosophy of the clubs he will establish. We look forward to seeing the history Messi will create as a club owner and which remarkable talents will emerge under his guidance.
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