Lionel Messi Acknowledges Two Football Legends Who Shaped His FreeKick Skills

• Lionel Messi holds the record for the most goals scored from free kicks in La Liga
• The Argentine revealed the two footballers that helped him improve these skills
• Messi won many crucial games for both Barcelona and Argentina from free kicks

Lionel Messi has revealed two footballing legends that have impacted his free kick abilities.

The former Barcelona captain remains one of football’s best dead-ball specialists, with his free kick goals totalling 62 so far in his career.

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has now revealed the football legends who gave him tips on how to improve his technique.

Messi, who is currently in China on Argentina national team duty, did in an interview with local Chinese publication, TTPlus.

As also reported by Goal, the veteran was questioned about his highly acclaimed free kick ability.

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Although he emphasised the importance of constant individual practice, Messi also revealed his former Barcelona teammate, Ronaldinho, and the late Argentine legend who coached him at La Albiceleste, Diego Maradona, taught him a lot.

"It depends on continuous training, and you can improve that skill every day. Ronaldinho taught me a lot and Maradona taught me a lot. But the most important thing is to keep training."

The former Paris Saint-Germain star will captain the world champions in two friendly games later this month, against Australia on June 15 and versus Indonesia on June 19.

Messi detained at Beijing airport

Meanwhile, Messi was delayed at the Beijing Airport after allegedly using the wrong passport on his arrival in China ahead of Argentina's friendly against Australia this month.

The 35-year-old reportedly presented his Spanish passport instead of an Argentine document which could secure his passage through Chinese immigration.

Messi was travelling alongside his international teammates, Angel di Maria, Rodrigo De Paul, and some bodyguards when he was stopped by the airport officials.

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As reported by Tribuna, the former Paris Saint-Germain star was briefly detained and was released when it was explained to him that he was using the wrong passport.

Messi discusses 2026 World Cup

Sports Brief earlier reported on Messi revealing his World Cup plans for when Argentina defend their title in three years' time.

The 35-year-old guided his country to a third title - their first in 37 years since Maradona won the trophy in 1986 for the country.