The physical demands on soccer players have increased significantly. Players now have less freedom on the pitch and have to be intense with regard to their pressing. As a result, a lot of ‘magicians’ have faded out of the game. However, it seems like not everyone is enjoying this modern way of playing soccer. Recently, an Al-Hilal teammate of Neymar spoke on the changes in soccer tactics and showered praise on Lionel Messi, whom he believes is the last of a dying breed.

Speaking of Messi, who is currently preparing for the upcoming MLS season, his debut season saw him clinch the team MVP award despite playing for just 3 months. Now the question is if Lionel Messi will go one better and help Inter-Miami win their first MLS title, as the expectations are high among Miami fans.

Soccer will miss Lionel Messi, as per Bounou

Yassine Bounou, the Moroccan goalkeeper and Neymar’s teammate, recently talked about the lack of joy in soccer. He said, “Football has lost a lot of its quirks and techniques. I don’t want to say that it no longer attracts viewers, but there is no longer a passion to see a specific player as there was before with Messi. We will miss Messi after two years, and we will not have players like him“. Bounou has also given an explanation of why modern soccer is different.

Bounou further added that soccer players have declined in terms of technical ability as the modern game emphasizes physical attributes. Even though he believes that the game is better tactically, the quality of players worth watching is very rare as far as he is concerned.

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Bounou’s claims are quite valid as number 10 players who produced magic on the pitch like Ozil, Isco, and James Rodriguez are a lost breed. What could be the reason? A magician from the past seems to know the answer.

The reason why modern soccer is moving away from magicians

Cesc Fabregas, the Spanish football manager and former professional footballer, was a part of the all-conquering Spanish and Barcelona sides. A number 10 in his prime with Arsenal, Fabregas explained the lack of quality number 10s and stated that the position is used in a completely different way.

Fabregas emphasized that the modern game is about attacking with structure. This is helpful for the counter-press when the team loses the ball and wants to avoid counterattacks. Yet, it doesn’t seem that Fabregas is a fan of this method, as it takes creativity away from the players.

Do you agree with Bounou’s claims regarding less magic in soccer? Let us know in the comments below.

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