During his early days with Barcelona, a young Lionel Messi received a curious order from his teammate Ronaldinho, as revealed by former Barça player Andrea Orlandi. Orlandi, who played with both stars, recounted an anecdote where Ronaldinho would playfully ask Messi to make him coffee, a gesture intended to keep the burgeoning talent grounded.
Orlandi explained on the HProject podcast that Ronaldinho would joke with Messi, asking, “Well, how many World Cups have you played in, kid?” before requesting coffee. Messi, unaware it was a jest, would comply. This interaction, according to Orlandi, served as a way for Ronaldinho to show affection and keep Messi calm, implicitly communicating, “You’re not Ronaldinho yet.”
Despite the playful banter, Ronaldinho acted as a mentor to Messi upon his arrival at the club. The Brazilian, already an established star and a leader in the locker room, integrated and protected Messi, fostering a strong connection between them. Orlandi noted that Ronaldinho’s approach was a way for the master to guide the youngster, recognising Messi’s potential.
The two players formed an iconic duo for Barcelona, playing together in 80 matches between 2004 and 2008. Orlandi recalled Ronaldinho telling Messi, “You’re at a level where one day you’ll be able to sit at my table,” highlighting the mutual respect and admiration between them.
Mentorship and Mutual Admiration
Messi himself later acknowledged the support and affection he received from Ronaldinho, both on and off the field. This guidance was crucial in helping him gain confidence and establish himself in the world of football. The relationship was key to Messi’s emergence with the Catalan club.
Orlandi, who played three seasons under the Catalan tunic, including two with the reserve team and one within the professional group, observed the dynamic between the two South Americans firsthand. He noted that while their profiles were very different at the time, their cohabitation during those years laid the foundation for Messi’s future success.
Ronaldinho’s affectionate nature extended to everyone, but his specific words to Messi underscored the unique bond they shared. The Brazilian’s mentorship helped shape Messi into the player he would become, long before Messi was preparing for his sixth World Cup with Argentina.
Kwame Ofori
Evelyn Mensah
Yaw Appiah
Ama Serwah