Lionel Messi and Pep Guardiola’s time collectively at Barcelona is famous, however former Barca defender Rafael Marquez just lately revealed a fiery second between Messi and Guardiola throughout a coaching session.
Marquez recollects how Guardiola defended him amid a heated argument with Messi on the apply pitch.
MORE: All the most recent soccer motion | Lionel Messi information
Why Pep Guardiola informed Messi to ‘shut up’?
Based on Marquez, the conflict passed off in a five-a-side recreation the place Messi, then a younger star, held onto the ball a bit too lengthy as an alternative of capturing.
Annoyed, Marquez informed Messi (quoted by The Mirror), “Messi, let go of the ball, bro.” Messi wasn’t proud of Marquez’s demand and fired again at him. That’s when Guardiola stepped in, stunning everybody by telling Messi to “shut up” and respect Marquez’s seniority.
Reflecting on the incident, Marquez defined, “Pep arrived and mentioned: ‘Messi, shut up. It’s a must to respect Rafa’s hierarchy.’” Guardiola’s robust message confirmed he wasn’t afraid to place Messi in his place, even with the younger Argentine on a quick monitor to stardom.
MORE: All the most recent soccer information | Barcelona information
Regardless of the heated second, the pair’s relationship flourished, main Barcelona to one of the crucial profitable eras in soccer historical past.
Collectively, they lifted a number of trophies, together with the Champions League title in 2009, solidifying Barcelona’s popularity as one of many biggest groups.
As we speak, Marquez works as an assistant coach for Mexico’s nationwide group, whereas Messi continues to impress followers, now with Inter Miami.
This story highlights Guardiola’s distinctive method to teaching, exhibiting that even soccer legends like Messi had moments of being reminded about teamwork and respect on the sector.
