FCBARCELONA.CAT

30.10.2008 14:26

Messi expecting big things from Maradona

Berta Brau

The Argentinian striker is delighted that Maradona has been named the new manager of his national side. He says “we have always had a good relationship” and believes that the legendary figure can create “a strong group and lead us to win things”.

Leo Messi’s reaction to Diego Maradona being announced as the new manager of Argentina was practically the only issue discussed at Thursday’s press conference. The Barça striker reckons Diego was a good choice, saying “I think it’ll be really good to have him so close, I think he can do a lot for us”.

Good relations

Messi also denied that he has personal issues regarding Maradona, saying that, quite the contrary, the pair have always had a solid relationship. “We have always got on well, every since I started playing we’ve had a good relationship” explained the player. “He has always shown affinity towards all of the players, and he has always been very close to me”.

The manager’s job

Leo Messi pointed out just what an important person Maradona is not only for Argentinian football but also for the country’s society in general. “We all love him because of who he is. I am sure he will try to get across to us everything that he has gone through, and everything he did as a player. It is very important for him to build a strong group and lead us to win things”.

In defence of Maradona

Messi also said it would be unfair to dwell upon the low points in Maradona’s life, as that shouldn’t have anything to do with his new managerial role. “We shouldn’t look at what he experienced outside of football, what he means for us is what he was as a footballer and is as a person … Despite things he might have said, he is still a great person” he said.

The Barça striker also said he doubts that there will be any special treatment towards Kun Agüero, even though Maradona and the Atlético Madrid player share family ties.

Candidate for FIFA World Player

Messi also commented on how pleased he feels to figure among the players short-listed for the next FIFA World Player Award. “It’s really nice for all the aspirants” he said, before adding modestly that his achievements have always been “the result of teamwork, because when things go well you always have a better chance of picking up individual awards”.

A difficult game

Barça are off to La Rosaleda on Saturday to face in-form Malaga, who have just won their fourth league match in a row. Leo Messi knows it won’t be an easy ride against the Andalusian outfit. “It will be hard because they’re a team that’s doing well at the moment, and who won last week at a very difficult ground (the Sánchez Pizjuán) and who are on a good run”.