Lionel Messi told which coach has had the greatest impact on his career as a footballer.
In an interview for the “Coach” magazine, the five-times winner of the “Golden Ball”, was asked which of the coaches has had the most influence on the player.
Messi answer was ,”Frank Rikjaard. He started everything for me. ”
Messi was trained by several different coach at Barcelona, but Frank was his first coach in the Barcelona first team.
Besides, Frank Rikjaard, Messi is trained by Pep Guardiola, Gerardo Martino, Vilanova and now Luis Enrique.
“I have learned from all the coaches who have trained me. However,I always have to look back at him who has given me the first opportunity – and for me was Frank Rikjaard. He was needed to have faith in me to allow me joining training with the first team, and then playing the first game – he started everything for me, “said Messi.