On Thursday, Lionel Messi took to social media to pay homage to his former coach, Tito Vilanova, marking the 10th anniversary of his passing. Vilanova, who sadly lost his battle with cancer in 2014, played a pivotal role in Messi’s career during their time together at Barcelona.
Vilanova guided Messi and Barcelona to a memorable La Liga title triumph in the 2012-13 season, where the team set a remarkable record of 100 points. However, his coaching journey was cut short due to a recurrence of gland cancer, forcing him to step down from his role in 2013, and tragically passing away a year later.
In his heartfelt post, Messi remembered Vilanova not just as a coach but as a dear friend. Reports suggest that Vilanova’s influence extended beyond the football pitch, as he played a crucial role in persuading Messi to remain at Barcelona amidst uncertainties about his future. According to Marca, in his final days, Vilanova and Messi had lengthy conversations, with the coach’s encouragement being instrumental in the Argentine’s decision to stay with the Catalan club.
Looking ahead, Messi is gearing up for his next match with Inter Miami CF against the New England Revolution. The team aims to maintain their lead in the MLS standings as they face off on Saturday evening.
Conclusion:
Tito Vilanova’s legacy continues to live on in the hearts of football fans worldwide, particularly through his profound impact on Lionel Messi and Barcelona. His guidance and support not only shaped Messi’s career but also cemented his place in the club’s history. As Messi and his teammates prepare for their upcoming matches, they carry with them the memories and lessons learned from their beloved coach.
FAQ:
1.Who was Tito Vilanova?
Tito Vilanova was a former coach of Barcelona, who led the team to numerous successes, including a historic La Liga title in the 2012-13 season. He tragically passed away in 2014 after battling cancer.
2.What was Lionel Messi’s relationship with Tito Vilanova?
Messi shared a close bond with Vilanova, both on and off the field. Vilanova’s influence played a significant role in Messi’s decision to remain at Barcelona during a period of uncertainty about his future with the club.
3.What is Lionel Messi’s next match?
Messi is set to compete with Inter Miami CF against the New England Revolution in their upcoming MLS fixture, where they aim to maintain their lead in the league standings