Barcelona Midfielder Snubs Lionel Messi As He Names His Football Role Model

• Lionel Messi has emerged as the idol and role model of many youngsters in the club system
• The ex-Barcelona captain continues to be a reference point despite his transfer to the MLS
• A Barcelona midfielder has snubbed Messi to name another club legend as his role model

Lionel Messi continues to serve as an inspiration for many young footballers who aspire to make their mark in the world of football.

The 36-year-old former Barcelona captain has increasingly become a guiding influence for numerous budding football talents, with many endeavouring to shape their careers after the mercurial Argentine.

While it is common to hear players from the club's renowned La Masia academy cite Messi as their role model, there is one Barcelona youngster who holds a different perspective.

Fermin Lopez, who recently sat down for an interview with Spanish outlet, Mundo Deportivo titled Fermin, the secrets of the Blaugrana revelation, touched on a few topics, including his journey to the Catalan club’s first team and his football role model.

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Football

Fermin Lopez speaks on his role model

When asked about his inspiration in the sport, the 20-year-old midfielder opted for Spain’s iconic Andres Iniesta. However, he didn’t forget to shower praise on Messi as well.

As quoted by Barca Universal, Fermin stated:

"My role model? I have always looked at Leo Messi as the best in history. Andres Iniesta is also my role model."

Furthermore, the Spanish under-21 midfielder highlighted the invaluable support he received from Xavi Hernandez when integrating into the first team setup at the club:

"Xavi and the coaching staff have been instrumental in my development from day one, especially during my initial matches. He was one of the finest midfielders in the history of the game, excelling in every aspect, from control to defence. I have learned a great deal from him and his staff."

Lopez, who played a pivotal role in the club’s recent preseason El Clasico victory, aspires to continue making an impact when both teams face off at the Olympic Stadium on October 28.

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Football

Joao Cancelo labels Barcelona fans’ annoying’

Meanwhile, Sports Brief previously reported on Barcelona defender, Joao Cancelo labelling some fans as 'annoying' in a video circulating online.

Following the draw against Granada, Cancelo - while leaving the club's training ground - was halted by enthusiastic fans seeking his autographs.

Before reluctantly agreeing to sign, the defender could be heard directing a few words to them which clearly showed his frustration at the requests.