It has been nothing less than a fairytale-like career for Lionel Messi. From facing heartbreak by missing penalties in a major trophy final to winning all the accolades available, the Argentine soccer player has come a long way. But all those things turn secondary when it comes to choosing him as a surreal player. In a conversation during the EssentiallySports Exclusive interview, former Norwegian soccer icon Jan Åge Fjørtoft lauded the Argentine captain for an attribute that sets him apart from other players.

The 36-year-old alchemist has taken the USA by storm after rejecting a stay in Europe and joining Inter Miami. His mesmerizing skills on the field and exceptional IQ in soccer do not fail to impress the best. Fjørtoft revealed a quality that makes Messi a different force.

Speaking in the EssentiallySports Exclusive interview, the expert said, “I’ve been working a lot in the Champions League, and I’ve been able to see him (Lionel Messi) live. And what he can do walking around and then just explode and take out 5–6 players. I’ve never seen something like it,” expressing astonishment.

The former FC Barcelona maestro is a highly reputed dribbler, often compared to greats like Diego Maradona. On numerous occasions, he skillfully bypassed his opponents to contribute to scoring and assisting goals. Moreover, it’s the ease with which Lionel Messi does his work that surprises people.

Also, not known for running much on the pitch, the Inter Miami captain can gauge the situation by just walking during the game. It also helps the star deviate the attention of opponents away from him, making it sting more. According to Fjørtoft, this is the unique skill of the Argentine legend. 

Jan Åge Fjørtoft praises Lionel Messi and his rival for their longevity

Jan Åge Fjørtoft has formerly been a Norwegian champion in addition to being a top scorer in Norway’s Division One in 1988. Therefore, the player-turned-pundit tells us what it means to play at a higher level. Communicating further in the EssentiallySports Exclusive interview, he said, “There have been so many great players in the history of football, but the thing is, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, they’ve done it season after season after season, and they’ve never been injured. So that is unbelievable, what we have been blessed to see these two guys,” appreciating their persistence.

READ MORE – Inter Miami Enters Billion Dollar Club Domain; Richer by $400M+ Thanks to Lionel Messi’s Move to MLS

Trending

Jurgen Klopp’s Ex Wife: Meet Sabine Klopp, Liverpool Boss’ Spouse Before Divorce in 2001

Who Is Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Girlfriend? Meet Hannah Atkins, What Does She Do & More Details On the Liverpool Star’s Relationship

Jurgen Klopp’s Son: Meet Ex-Borussia Dortmund Star Marc Klopp, Now a Businessman

Pep Guardiola’s Net Worth in 2024: How Much Does the Manchester City Boss Earn From Salary, Endorsements & More

Ditching Manchester City, Rio Ferdinand Ready to ‘Dry’ Arsenal’s Tears Despite Wanting Mikel Arteta to End Pep Guardiola’s PL Hopes

Meanwhile, the numbers speak for themselves. Lionel Messi has already made 1048 appearances in his career, winning 44 trophies. On the other hand, Ronaldo scored a monstrous 876 goals in 1207 appearances. Therefore, the legacy of the two stars has been unmatched until now, which Fjørtoft reflected on.

READ MORE – Lionel Messi Confirms 2022 World Cup As His Last in Apple TV’s ‘The Rise of a Legend’