Lionel Messi: A Legacy of Excellence and Future Aspirations

Lionel Messi has established himself as the most decorated player of all time, with his impressive collection of medals expected to grow in 2025. He played a crucial role in securing a historic domestic title for his current team in the United States and earned both the Golden Boot and MVP honors.

Looking ahead, Messi has committed to a three-year contract extension with Inter Miami, extending his tenure in South Florida until 2028. He is anticipated to be a key player in Argentina’s defense of their World Cup title this summer.

Javier Zanetti, a former international who earned 145 caps for Argentina, is among those eagerly watching as Messi prepares for yet another major international tournament. With 196 appearances and 115 goals for his national team, Messi has not only emulated but surpassed many of the achievements of Argentine football icon Diego Maradona.

Zanetti, who has had the privilege of playing alongside both Messi and Maradona, expressed his admiration for their remarkable contributions to the sport. In a conversation with Corriere dello Sport, he reflected on his experiences with Messi, stating, “I played with Leo for five or six years in the national team. He was very young and shy when he first arrived, but only off the pitch. I’ve witnessed him perform astonishing feats. He embodies the essence of football. And Diego, well, he is Diego.”

Zanetti also had the opportunity to play alongside the legendary Brazilian striker Ronaldo at Serie A club Inter Milan, and he has some fascinating stories to share. Recalling one memorable match against Roma, he noted how Ronaldo insisted on leaving immediately after the game to catch a flight home. Zanetti reminisced about a 4-1 victory, highlighting the playful atmosphere among teammates during their travels.

Throughout his illustrious career, Zanetti collaborated with 28 different coaches, a remarkable figure he acknowledged, saying, “That sounds about right; I had four in one season!” When asked to identify the standout coach, he immediately mentioned Jose Mourinho, who led Inter to Champions League glory as part of a historic Treble in 2010.

Zanetti remembered his first conversation with Mourinho fondly: “It was June, and I was on my way back to Argentina with a layover in Fiumicino. Suddenly, I received a call from a Portuguese number. ‘It’s Jose Mourinho, I’ve just signed for Inter, you’re going to be my captain. Apologies if I don’t speak Italian very well.’ He spoke it exceptionally well—direct, loyal, and an incredible coach.”

Now 52 years old, Zanetti serves as vice-president at Inter Milan, where the club is striving for another Serie A title in the 2025-26 season. Mourinho has returned to his roots, managing Benfica, while Messi is gearing up for the preseason with Inter Miami as they prepare to defend their MLS Cup title.