One of the best footballers in history left such an amazing trace at Camp Nou. That is why Lionel Messi is mentioned even these days, when they mark the 125th anniversary of the club’s founding.Although he’s now on the other side of the planet (Inter Miami), the wizard from Rosario will always stay attached to the Catalans, because he spent 21 years in sunny Barcelona. That’s why he accepted El Mundo Deportivo’s call to talk about his times with the Blaugrana since the club is celebrating its 125th birthday.Messi reveals how Pep made his Olympics dreams come true by confronting BarcaMessi was asked which historical figure from Barcelona had the biggest influence on him. And the answer seems to be quite expected…”There are two figures who had a great influence on me. Pep Guardiola, because I had him as a coach for a long time and we achieved incredible successes that we could not even imagine before him. And Ronaldinho, because of the way he welcomed me, the way he helped me, was of great help to me in my first moments in the senior team. I also remember Iniesta and Xavi as teammates, as well as the three who play with me here in Miami (Busquets, Alba and Suarez), and they are my friends. Of course, a special recognition for Tito Vilanova, who we really miss”.Barca’s mythical letter “R”: Romario, Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho and their successor – RaphinhaIn the days of celebration, Messi explained what he wants from the current generation.”I hope that the club can return to what it has always been. As if Barca is a world reference, which it has never stopped being, it always fights to win titles until the end of every season. As a Barca player, you can never be satisfied with coming second or not winning, because the fans demand the most from you. Being the best club in the world means high demands. I would like to see Barca win La Liga, the Cup and the Champions League again. And when he can’t, at least he competes until the last moment,” concluded Messi.LA LIGA – MATCHDAY 17Friday 23.00: (1.95) Celta (3.50) Mallorca (4.40)Saturday 16.00: (1.80) Las Palmas (3.50) Valladolid (4.70)18.15: (5.00) Betis (4.40) Barcelona (1.60)20.30: (2.25) Valencia (3.10) Rayo Vallecano (3.50)23.00: (4.90) Girona (3.60) Real Madrid (1.75)Sunday 16.00: (4.50) Leganes (3.45) Sociedad (1.95)18.15: (1.95) Ath.Bilbao (3.50) Villareal (3.90)20.30: (2.10) Osasuna (3.30) Alaves (3.70)23.00: (1.40) Atl.Madrid (4.60) Sevilla (8.00)Monday 23.00: (1.85) Getafe (3.25) Espanyol (5.50)***odds are subject to change***
