Former Barcelona defender Rafael Marquez recently shared a fascinating story about a heated training session where Pep Guardiola had to intervene between him and a young Lionel Messi, according to GOAL.
Clash Between Messi and Rafael Marquez
The incident took place during Marquez’s time at Barcelona, where he played alongside Messi from 2003 to 2010.
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According to Marquez, the tension flared during a five-a-side drill, where Messi, who was known for his control and skill, held onto the ball longer than Marquez felt was necessary.
In the middle of the session, Marquez became frustrated with Messi’s reluctance to shoot, especially as their team was behind. Marquez confronted Messi, urging him to release the ball and take the shot, but Messi responded in a way that sparked an argument.
At that moment, Guardiola stepped in to restore order. Defending Marquez, Guardiola directed Messi to “shut up” and reminded him of Marquez’s seniority on the team.
Recalling Guardiola’s intervention, Rafael Marquez explained,
“Yes, in a five-a-side game [we clashed].
“He was on my team and of course, Messi had the ball. He had the goal to shoot and he didn’t shoot.
“We were losing and we said to him: ‘Messi, shoot, Messi, score a goal’. Nothing.
“Until I got p***ed off and told him: ‘Messi, let go of the ball, bro.’
“So he approached and answered me. Pep arrived and said: ‘Messi, shut up. You have to respect Rafa’s hierarchy.’”
This moment highlights Guardiola’s approach to team discipline and the respect he fostered among players, even when dealing with a rising star like Messi.
