Hristo Stoichkov and Lionel Messi share a historic bond as Barcelona legends. The former Bulgarian striker stands out as one of Argentina’s most loyal defenders and is often described as the best player of all time.
Now, Mr. Stoichkov has once again made headlines for not only defending Leo from criticism, but also for harshly targeting those who would try to capitalize on his achievements.
Stoichkov’s harsh message for those taking credit for Messi’s success
In an interview with 3Cat’s Collapse (via Sports), the former striker was asked if it was “easy” to interview the reigning world champion: “Easy. Was it easy? As easy as pa anbu tomket (tomato bread),” Frist declared with obvious admiration and respect for the Inter Miami star.
Stoichkov revealed that he met Messi when he arrived at La Masa at the age of 13, shortly after the player retired, where he also met Puyol, Pic, Xavi and Iniesta. Since then, he has emphasized Messi’s consistent humility despite his success.
However, on this occasion, he also said that he has not hesitated to slam the “opportunists”, those who seek to profit from Messi’s greatness, especially as his achievements are now indisputable.
The Bulgarian player stressed that Messi’s career requires no outside explanations or intermediaries to claim credit. In his opinion, the Argentine’s career is the result of his talent, hard work and competitive spirit, and not the credit of his coach, manager or former teammates.
“Someone says, ‘I know Messi,’ ‘I went to dinner with Messi,’ ‘Messi started playing football because of me’… Oh my god! If the kid doesn’t have the talent, if the kid doesn’t have the spirit, if the kid doesn’t have natural talent, what have you done with him?” he asked.
Stoichkov also emphasized Lionel’s warmth and greatness as a human being, saying, “Every time I’m with him, whether it’s in Miami, with Argentina or here in Barcelona, I have nothing but good things to say about him.”
Thus, the Rose legend claims that no one should use Messi’s name for their own benefit, as Leo’s legacy stands alone based on his talent, humility and the unique way of understanding football that he noticed from the first time he saw him in La Masia.
