Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson revealed his relief that Lionel Messi didn’t join the Premier League back in the summer of 2020.
As speculation swirled around Messi’s potential departure from Barcelona, with Manchester City emerging as frontrunners for his signature, Robertson admitted he preferred the 2022 World Cup winner stayed at Barca.
“From a completely selfish point of view I hope it doesn’t happen, hopefully, he stays at Barca,” Robertson expressed, highlighting Lionel’s unparalleled talent and the potential threat he would pose to Liverpool’s title aspirations if he joined a rival Premier League club.
Messi praised by Liverpool ace
According to The Mirror, Robertson acknowledged Messi’s status as one of the greatest players ever and the impact he could have in England, but emphasized Liverpool’s stance of not being in the race for his signature.
“I think Liverpool have ruled out that we are going to sign him, so for me, I don’t want him anywhere near the Premier League and hopefully it stays that way,” Robertson stated, reflecting on the uncertainty surrounding Lionel’s future at Barcelona and the potential consequences of his departure.
Ultimately, Lionel’s saga with Barcelona reached a resolution as he signed for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, sparing Liverpool from facing him in the Premier League.
Robertson expressed his relief, as Messi’s move to PSG meant he wouldn’t pose a direct threat to Liverpool’s domestic ambitions.
Despite previous links with Manchester City, they were focused on signing Jack Grealish instead of pursuing Messi.
“We were convinced by Grealish and convinced Leo would stay at Barca,” remarked City manager Pep Guardiola, indicating a shift in priorities that aligned with Robertson’s sentiments.
For Robertson, the prospect of facing the Argentine in the Premier League was daunting, as he recalled the challenges of playing against him in the past.
“I’ve played against him twice and it’s the hardest games I’ve ever played,” Robertson admitted, underlining Messi’s exceptional ability to influence matches and the need for vigilance against him.
In the end, Robertson’s wish was granted as Messi’s move to PSG ensured that Liverpool wouldn’t have to contend with him on the domestic front.
Sports Buddy also reported The debate surrounding the title of the greatest footballer of all time GOAT between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo which continues to captivate fans, pundits, and players alike.
It’s a debate that shows no signs of fading even as their respective eras come to an end.
