There is this idea that Lionel Messi is not able to be a leader, with Diego Maradona one of those holding that exact opinion.
Back in October, Maradona, now managing Mexican second-tier side Dorados de Sinaloa, questioned Messi's ability as a leader and claimed he goes to the toilet 20 times before a game.
"Messi's a great player, but he's not a leader," Maradona said to La Ultima Palabra Mexico on Fox Sports.
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"Before talking to the Coach and players, he'll play on the PlayStation. Then, on the field, he wants to be the leader. He's the best in the world with Cristiano [Ronaldo].
"For me, it's difficult to say it but it's useless to make a leader out of a man who goes to the bathroom 20 times before a game."
But while Messi has a reputation being a quiet guy on the pitch and someone who would prefer to lead by example, he demonstrated leadership qualities in the 5-1 thrashing of Lyon at the Nou Camp on Wednesday night.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner had four goal involvements in the second leg rout as Barca progressed to quarter finals and set up a showdown with Manchester United.
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And in addition to that, there's a clip doing the rounds showing Messi instructing his teammates after Lyon scored to make it 2-1 through Lucas Tousart.
He's not shouting and balling; instead opting to converse with his players and advise them on what to do. That's why he's Barcelona captain.
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Meanwhile, Lyon skipper Nabil Fekir has perfectly summarised just how complete a player Messi is, having witnessed it up close and personal.
Speaking after the game, as per El Periodico, he said: "We played a good game but history's best player made it impossible for us. When he's not scoring he's assisting. When he's not assisting he's play-making. It was impossible. He is impossible."
Featured Image Credit:Topics:Β Football News, FC Barcelona, Football, Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, Champions League, Lyon, Argentina
