In this heartfelt and revealing account, we delve into the life and legacy of Lionel Messi, as told by one of his closest childhood friends, Leandro Benitez. A story that begins on the makeshift pitches of Rosario, Argentina, where a young Messi's talent was already evident, despite his diminutive stature.
The Early Years
Leandro recalls meeting Leo at the tender age of eight, both part of the Newell's Old Boys youth academy. While Leo was in the A team, Leandro was in the C team, but their paths crossed frequently as they played against each other. It was on these pitches that Leandro first witnessed Messi's extraordinary skills, his shirt hanging off his small frame as he effortlessly outshone his larger opponents.
"He showed everyone up. His shirt was gigantic. The bigger lads tried to kick him from all sides, but they couldn't grab hold of him." - Leandro Benitez
As they moved up to full-size pitches at 11 years old, their friendship blossomed, along with Lucas Scaglia, Messi's cousin-in-law. Together, they spent countless hours playing football, truco (a card game), and enjoying each other's company at Lucas' house, where they could also swim and play football tennis.
A Humble Beginning
Leandro paints a picture of a shy but lively Messi, always inventing mischief and with a deep desire to help his family. He recalls Messi's determination to reach the top division, not just for himself but for his grandmother and his hardworking family. This drive and humility, Leandro believes, are key to Messi's success and character.
"He deserves everything he has experienced." - Leandro Benitez
The Magic of Messi
On the pitch, Messi's magic was undeniable. He dominated small-sided games, scoring multiple goals, and his keepy-uppies in Peru left a lasting impression. Leandro describes Messi's aura, his energy, and how he expressed himself through the ball, without needing many words.
"He had that magic where, wherever he went, his aura was contagious." - Leandro Benitez
Growth and Challenges
Messi's departure to Barcelona for trials was a pivotal moment. Leandro remembers the day Messi knocked on his door, ready to leave for Europe. It was a shock, and Leandro's gift of a Newell's shirt to Messi is a touching moment. The challenges Messi faced, including his growth hormone treatment, are a reminder of the sacrifices made early on.
As they reconnected online and in person, Messi's growth was evident, both physically and in his footballing prowess. Leandro and Lucas watched with pride as Messi scored for Argentina, celebrating with three fingers on his heart, a symbol of their friendship.
Criticism and Evolution
Leandro's perspective on the criticism Messi faced in Argentina is insightful. He initially took it personally, but over time, he understood the game better, realizing that Messi was evolving to meet the expectations of the Argentine public. Messi's comparison to Maradona and his subsequent adaptation, speaking out and playing with passion, is a testament to his growth as a player and a leader.
A Lasting Impact
As Messi led Argentina to victory, Leandro's emotions were overwhelming. He reflects on how Messi's achievements have impacted not just him but also his children, allowing them to experience the joy of being champions. Leandro's gratitude for Messi's contribution to football and his example as a human being is profound.
"To be a good football player, first you have to be a good person - and he always says that." - Leandro Benitez
Conclusion
In this intimate portrait, we see Messi through the eyes of a friend, a witness to his journey from a talented youth to a legendary footballer. Leandro's account is a reminder that behind every great athlete is a story of hard work, humility, and the power of friendship. Messi's impact extends beyond the pitch, inspiring and changing lives, and for that, we owe him a debt of gratitude.
