Few players in football history have left a legacy as lasting as Lionel Messi’s at FC Barcelona. While Lionel Messi’s records, trophies, and brilliance speak about the player himself, one of his most unappreciated contributions lies in the way he inspired an entire generation of La Masia talents. The young La Masia stars who grew up watching Messi play and dominate the field for several decades now aim to carry his legacy.
La Masia is Barcelona’s world-famous youth academy known for producing generational talents including Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Busquets, Puyol, and many more. Names such as Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Balde, and Cubarsi are some recent names that have risen from the ranks of the famous youth academy. La Masia aims to give a break to talents who understand the club’s philosophy initiated by Johan Cruyff’s principles built on technical brilliance, humility, and love for the badge. One of La Masia’s biggest achievements outside Barcelona is their contribution to the 2010 World Cup triumph for Spain. Messi being from La Masia himself, tells a lot about his impact on the next generation.
Ansu Fati: Messi’s Heir?
Ansu Fati was once named the “next Messi”, a tag that came with pressure and appreciation. Fati played with Messi for a few seasons, and the chemistry between the past generation and the new generation was a treat to watch. Messi often praised Ansu publicly, calling him “a player with a natural gift for goal and a good head on his shoulders.” These words of praise and on-field relation showcased Messi’s concern for the younger generation and how he inspired them.
Though Fati couldn’t live up to the hype due to unfortunate injuries, we all saw the fearlessness, spark, and directness he brought to the field. One thing we noticed was when Messi was on the pitch, Fati played with more confidence rather than reliance.
The Pedri Effect
Many are not aware that Pedri is not a La Masia graduate, Barcelona brought Pedri from Las Palmas on a transfer. Though not a La Masia talent, Pedri’s arrival coincided with Messi’s final years at the club. It was Messi who saw the spark in Pedri and guided him with subtle instructions and trust. Pedri himself spoke about how incredible it is to play with Messi and how he idolized him when growing up.
The New Breed
Even youngsters who never got the chance to play with Messi including the likes of Gavi and Balde credit the Argentine and his legacy with the club. Gavi has mentioned him watching Messi’s videos as a boy and wanting to replicate his mentality and passion.
Messi’s Legacy
Messi’s contribution for the club is an epitome of what a legend is. He was loyal, passionate, and always expressed his love for the crest. His impact will be ever lasting for the next generation. For La Masia graduates, Messi wasn’t just a superstar, he was revelation who showed that any kid who has the passion, humility, and determination can go on and be the best in the world. For many Messi is the reason to play football and support Barcelona.