As a lifelong football fan, I've always found it fascinating how even the greatest players face criticism. Lionel Messi's 2020/21 season has been anything but a fairytale, and it's got me reflecting on all the times footballing legends have actually slammed the Barcelona superstar.

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Pele's Bizarre Comparison

The Brazilian legend once claimed Messi couldn't compare to him because "he only shoots with one leg" and "doesn't head the ball well." Seriously? That's like criticizing a Ferrari for not having enough cup holders. Messi's right foot and heading might be weaker than his magical left, but they're still world-class.

Gatti's 'Phenomenon' Comments 🧤

Former Argentina goalkeeper Gatti claimed Messi was no longer a 'phenomenon' and accused him of walking too much on the pitch. Meanwhile, Messi was on his way to 20 goals and assists. Some 'decline' that turned out to be!

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Modric's Ballon d'Or Diss 🏆

Luka Modric criticized Messi (and Ronaldo) for not attending the 2018 Ballon d'Or ceremony, saying it was unfair to fellow players and voters. Honestly? Hard to disagree with Modric here - it was disappointing not seeing them applaud his achievement.

Maradona's Leadership Critique 🇦🇷

Diego Maradona, who managed Messi with Argentina, claimed "he's not a leader" and made that famous comment about Messi going to the toilet "20 times before a game." Harsh coming from a former manager, but perhaps there's some truth about pressure affecting different players differently.

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Passarella's Argentina Theory

Daniel Passarella noticed Messi plays differently for Argentina than Barcelona, suggesting he might not feel completely at ease with the national team. This one actually makes sense - the pressure of representing your country is unique.

Alves' Copa America Comments 🤝

Even former teammate Dani Alves criticized Messi's post-Copa America rant, saying he disrespected Brazilian players and institutions. When a friend calls you out, maybe there's some validity to the criticism.

Moreno's 'Bubble' Observation ️

Real Mallorca boss Vicente Moreno suggested Messi lives in a bubble where he can't be reasoned with like other players. But let's be real - when you're arguably the greatest footballer ever, some special treatment is inevitable.

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Setien's Management Struggles 👔

Quique Setien revealed Messi is "difficult to manage" and compared him to Michael Jordan in terms of complex personalities. This actually makes Messi more relatable - even GOATs have their quirks and demands.

What strikes me most is how these criticisms reveal different expectations for superstars. When you're Messi, every game becomes a measuring stick against perfection. The truth is, even the greatest player of all time can't play like the greatest player of all time every single match.

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My Takeaway 💭

  • Even legends face criticism from other legends

  • Some critiques have merit, others are just noise

  • The higher you climb, the more scrutiny you face

  • Messi's response? Let his football do the talking

Next time you face criticism, remember - if even Lionel Messi gets slammed by Pele and Maradona, maybe your workplace feedback isn't so bad after all!