(foto: Getty Images)
Real Madrid legends Roberto Carlos and Fabio Cannavaro recall their first encounter with Messi in 2006, describing him as "the new Maradona" and marveling at his extraordinary talent.
Roberto Carlos and Fabio Cannavaro, two of the greatest defenders in football history and former stars of Real Madrid, were among the first to realize the greatness of Lionel Messi. Reflecting on their careers, both legends have expressed relief that they retired before Messi reached his peak, recognizing his immense talent as early as 2006.
Roberto Carlos recently shared a memorable conversation he had with Cannavaro following a game against Barcelona, where Messi, just 19 at the time, had left a lasting impression.
"Messi dribbled past Cannavaro, and he was faster than me. After the match, Fabio and I just looked at each other, and I asked him, ‘Who the hell is this player? He looks like the new Maradona!’" Roberto Carlos recalled.
He admitted that, after witnessing Messi’s potential firsthand, he felt lucky to have left Spanish football soon after. "It was crystal clear to me that the next generation of defenders would have a hard time dealing with Messi. I’m glad I watched him more on TV than had to face him on the pitch," the legendary Brazilian added.
Carlos and Cannavaro’s predictions couldn’t have been more accurate—if anything, Messi has exceeded their expectations. Over the years, the Argentine has cemented his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time, achieving milestones that few could have imagined back in 2006.
Today, the Argentine maestro plays for Inter Miami in the MLS, where he continues to inspire fans and opponents alike. The new MLS season kicks off in February, and Messi remains one of the league’s top attractions.
Carlos and Cannavaro, however, are content watching him from the sidelines, knowing that they faced one of football’s all-time greats before his rise to global dominance.