Former Barcelona midfielder Bernd Schuster has highlighted the small difference between PSG superstar Lionel Messi and his compatriot Diego Maradona. Schuster explained that seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi is more of a reserved person, while former Napoli star Maradona has a more outgoing personality.
Comparisons between Messi and Maradona have increased since the PSG maestro guided Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar. For the Albiceleste he scored seven goals and three assists. Schuster believes he has shown seniority in the tournament.
“We saw a more experienced Messi. He’s not that boy anymore who made everyone fall in love with his football and that was the only thing that mattered to him. With his seniority, with his age, he’s grown a lot,” the German told Super Depor Radio (h/t AS).”
He then explained the small detail that separates the two Argentine icons, saying:
“There is only one small difference I see between Diego and Leo and that is that Diego was more outward looking. He told everyone how he felt. Messi isn’t as capable of saying: ‘I’m dying for my country; I die for my people’. He thinks about it inwardly; it’s what comes to me. Diego communicated much of what he felt to his teammates and his fans; that’s why everyone loved him so much. Messi keeps it to himself, but his attitude on the field is similar.”
Schuster further praised Messi for not opting to retire from the national team after winning the World Cup. He said:
Lionel Messi paid a special tribute to Diego Maradona today 💙
“Messi can play for a few more years. That’s what keeps him interested. He has football on his mind. It’s in a pleasant place, just like Paris; it’s a comfortable club for him. He no longer has this requirement like the greats of Europe. Of course, after so many years of trying, they want to win the Champions League at least once. He can play there for a few more years.”
Lionel Messi’s impressive numbers for PSG this season
Lionel Messi turned the tide in Paris.
Lionel Messi has made 26 appearances for the Parisians in all competitions this season, scoring 15 goals and providing 14 assists. Including ten goals and as many assists in Ligue 1, four goals and as many assists in the Champions League and one goal in the Coupe de France.
Meanwhile, it’s worth noting that the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has less than five months into his contract with the Parisians. However, there is still nothing to suggest that he will extend his stay in the French capital.
Lionel Messi could reportedly say goodbye to Parc des Princes in the summer. A return to Barcelona or a move to Saudi Arabia are touted as options on the table.
Source : www.sportskeeda.com
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