“He’s a Maradona”: La Masia reports reveal debate over Messi

“He’s a Maradona”: the comparison appears in La Masia reports documenting debate over signing Messi. The assessments recall that, despite reservations voiced at the start of his time at Barça, the young Argentinian would go on to change the club’s history. His talent was already catching the eye when he was a child, but it did not convince everyone.

The documents were revealed by journalist Florent Torchut, author of the biography “Rey Leo” and a journalist at France Football. They cover three assessments prepared by La Masia coaches during the Argentinian’s first trials with FC Barcelona, in the autumn of 2000. Messi was 13 when he arrived at the club. The reports show contrasting opinions: the first coach praised his footballing qualities and technical superiority over players of his age.

One assessment described his skill set as complete: “For his age, he is a very complete technical player.” It also highlighted his vision, agility, intelligence, dribbling and powerful shooting. Its overall verdict was highly positive: “Very good in the box. His only weakness is his height and lack of physical strength. Great player.”

Another assessment acknowledged the Argentinian’s technical quality but judged that his physique could become a major obstacle to his development. The document cited a “physical limitation (142 cm)” that, in its author’s view, prevented him from competing, before concluding: “I don’t think he should be signed.”

By contrast, another coach argued for bringing him into the club, writing: “Allowing for the differences, he’s a Maradona (young in age). I would sign him; he has a lot more to come. We’ll see how he develops.” The reference to Maradona captured the impression young Messi could make even at that early stage.

The subsequent career gave particular weight to those differing assessments. Messi played 778 official matches for FC Barcelona, scored 672 goals and won 35 titles with the club.