Frenkie de Jong reveals why Lionel Messi is different from rest of footballers

Both have played with each other during Messi’s time at Barcelona.

The incredible criteria that Frenkie de Jong has set for his former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi’s superiority above “the rest” is astounding.

Eight times winner of the Ballon d’Or after graduating from the legendary La Masia academy system, Messi experienced a record-breaking stint in Catalonia, which helped him build his reputation at Camp Nou. When Barca were unable to extend his contract, the Argentina international, who had won almost everything with them, left for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021.

Since moving on to Inter Miami, he has won the MLS MVP honour in the 2024 season. With a World Cup winner’s medal now conspicuously displayed on his glistening resume, Messi has increased his remarkable total of major honours to 46 while in Florida.

Messi is as tough in practice as he is in crucial games, according to some American teammates. De Jong explains why the South American is the best player on whichever field he steps onto. Speaking to the media the Netherlands international said:

“I’ve never seen such a big difference between one player and the rest. Whatever we did in training, Messi was the best, always.”

Regarding the arsenal of talents that enables Messi to surpass almost every other player during the games and makes him such a menace to opposing players and coaches, De Jong, who joined Messi at Barcelona in 2019, continued, “He sees solutions on the field that you as a coach cannot think of in advance.”

Messi is now spending his time off as he will soon return to action when the next MLS season starts next month.

As Messi approaches the last year of his Inter Miami deal, he will be looking to put up even more spectacular displays in 2025. In addition to returning to the FIFA Club World Cup, he is anticipated to play a key role in his nation’s 2026 defence of the world championship.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.