Pep Had to Warn Puyol Not to Hurt Messi during a Training Session?

Playing on the same team with Messi is a dream come true for every player. The chances of winning every game are huge, and he loves to assist as well. This of course only counts for the offensive players. But defensive players have benefits too.

The first and most important one is that you don’t have to play against him. He’s one of the best dribblers of all time, and according to many defenders he’s simply unstoppable.

But what happens when you have a training session, and you’re playing against Messi? You must go easy on him, but on the other hand you must show the coach that you know how to defend.

Puyol found himself in a similar situation. He had to play against Messi during a training session, and like always, Messi was unstoppable.

Puyol on playing against Messi

‘In a mini one-on-one match, I told myself: “I’m going to see if I can stop him”. It was humiliating,’ Puyol told La Vanguardia.

‘Pep [Guardiola] told me: “Carles, don’t injure him”.

‘I told Pep: “If you don’t want anything to happen, stop the session.” I tried everything but he always got past me at his own pace.’

‘He’s head and shoulders above anyone I’ve seen.’

‘He’s an alien. He’s better now than he was four years ago because he reads the game better. He’s unstoppable.’

Of course Puyol is a legendary Barcelona player, and he always has great things to say about Messi. But what about other players? Henry had a Messi story to share as well. He was a Barcelona player too, but he admits that Arsenal is his favorite club.

The only reason he left Arsenal is to win titles, especially the Champions League. He fulfilled his dream at Barcelona, and moved on.

However, when Rio Ferdinand invited him at his sport related show, he asked him to pick between Messi and Ronaldo. His answers was Messi, and he also shared a story to back up his decision.

Just like Henry said, Messi is above all of them!

Puyol says Lionel Messi can play til he’s 40

‘I agree with those who said he’s been Barcelona’s umbilical cord in the last 10 years. I have no doubts that we are looking at the best player in history.’

‘He’s always good, he never hides and if he wants to he can be at the helm until he’s 40.’

‘He’s in constant evolution. He has no ceiling. He dominates in all aspects of the play. His influence is absolute.’ – Source.

The former Barcelona captain was there to witness the miracle of Messi. And when he says that Messi can play until he’s 40, you better believe it!

Messi improves every year, and his talent goes beyond dribbling and pace. He can still be a key player, even after he loses his speed and acceleration.