The Digest:
In a candid ESPN interview, the Argentine icon downplayed the importance of personal statistics and records, framing his legendary achievements, including his 91-goal year, as a natural byproduct of his love for the game rather than a premeditated pursuit.
Key Points:
- Lionel Messi stated he does not like modern football's focus on statistics, saying he never played to "achieve a record or surpass someone."
- He described his historic 91-goal year in 2012 and other milestones as things that "simply happened because they happened."
- The Inter Miami forward emphasized he plays to "live the game and enjoy it," aiming to be decisive rather than stat-padding.
- Looking ahead, Messi named Spain, France, England, Brazil, and Germany as the main challengers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- He expressed a strong desire to defend Argentina's title in 2026 but cautiously admitted "there's a chance he may not play," though he hopes to at least attend the tournament.
- Messi reflected on a career of intertwined successes, finding it impossible to single out one best season among Barcelona's Champions League wins and Argentina's Copa América triumphs.
Sources: ESPN
