Three Words with Lionel Messi

Just a few games into the new Liga season, GamePlan A had Barcelona and Argentina star Lionel Messi in the studio to discuss what it takes to be at the top of his game. The newly promoted captain of the Spanish league champions was clear that his game is all about courage, practice and the team around him.

For me it’s all about having the courage to get up and try again. It’s how I’ve approached things from a very young age; as a kid leaving Rosario, starting from zero in a new club, new city, new country, breaking into the first team and then the many setbacks I’ve had on the pitch since then. My love for the game is what has always given me the courage to keep trying, to keep getting back up.

It’s a necessary part of the game and my future. Some days training is more enjoyable than others. But it’s the only way to get better and prepare properly for competition.

Having a good team is so important – a strong group of people that are unified and working towards the same objectives. The dressing room in Barcelona is filled with really good guys, each one of them with their own personality. It’s very competitive and I don’t need to push anything – they know their role, our objectives and it’s easy being captain of such a group.