Lionel Messi Reflects on Barcelona’s Legacy and La Masia on Club’s 125th Anniversary
Speaking during the commemorations, Messi praised Barcelona’s famed youth academy, La Masia, which has shaped generations of football talent.
Former Barcelona star Lionel Messi. Photo/Fabrizio Romano.
As FC Barcelona celebrated its 125th anniversary, Lionel Messi, one of the club’s greatest icons, shared heartfelt reflections on his formative years at La Masia and the profound impact the club has had on his life and career.
Speaking during the commemorations, Messi praised Barcelona’s famed youth academy, La Masia, which has shaped generations of football talent.
“La Masia still means a lot to me. It’s unbelievable,” Messi remarked.
The Argentine superstar, who joined the club at just 13 years old, credited La Masia not only for honing his football skills but also for instilling enduring values that shaped him as a person.
“I’ve lived at the club since I was 13. I grew up there with the values they taught me,” he said.
Messi’s time at La Masia laid the foundation for an extraordinary career that saw him rise from a promising youth player to a global football legend.
His technical brilliance, work ethic, and loyalty to the Barcelona ethos became synonymous with the club’s identity during his 21-year tenure.
“For me, my experience there was fundamental because it shaped me as a player and a person,” Messi added, underscoring the academy’s dual focus on developing both football skills and strong character.
La Masia has long been celebrated as one of the most successful football academies in the world, producing stars like Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, and Sergio Busquets.
Its emphasis on nurturing talent while imparting core values of humility, discipline, and teamwork has made it a cornerstone of Barcelona’s legacy.
Messi’s words resonated deeply during the anniversary celebrations, as they reflected the club’s commitment to preserving its traditions while continuing to inspire future generations.
Despite his move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 and subsequent transfer to Inter Miami, Messi’s enduring connection to Barcelona remains evident in moments like these.
As FC Barcelona marks 125 years of rich history, Messi’s reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the integral role La Masia has played in the club’s success.
The anniversary is not just a celebration of past achievements but also a reaffirmation of the values and vision that will guide Barcelona into the future.
For Messi and countless others, the bond with Barcelona and La Masia transcends football, symbolizing a shared journey of growth, identity, and excellence.
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