Lionel Messi: When Arsene Wenger Spotted the 2 ‘Biggest’ Weaknesses in the GOAT

• Arsene Wenger once claimed that Lionel Messi has two major weaknesses in his game despite being almost perfect
• The iconic Arsenal manager was, however, quick to stress that Messi's strengths overshadow his perceived flaws
• Meanwhile, the 36-year-old will look to add more silverware to his trophy cabinet with Argentina in the Copa America

Lionel Messi is regarded by many as the greatest footballer ever to have graced the sport, especially after he guided Argentina to World Cup victory in 2022.

The empyrean playmaker starred from the group stages to the final, scoring twice and converting the first penalty as Argentina dethroned France in Qatar.

To many, this achievement marked the culmination of Messi's illustrious career and effectively ended the GOAT debate between him and his longtime rival, Cristiano Ronaldo.

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As noted by Givemesport, the former FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain superstar could retire now at 36, with most of his impressive records remaining unchallenged for generations.

However, Messi continues to strive for excellence, moving to the United States and making a significant impact in Major League Soccer (MLS) with his dazzling performances for Inter Miami.

Currently, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is focusing on the upcoming Copa America, aiming to lead Lionel Scaloni's team to defend their title.

Despite his almost divine abilities, Messi has flaws, as noted by legendary Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger.

Messi's weaknesses revealed by Wenger

Wenger, now FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development, once pointed out two specific weaknesses that slightly diminish Messi's otherwise godlike status.

In 2018, while analysing Leo, Wenger praised the Argentine playmaker but also highlighted these imperfections, suggesting that even the greatest have room for improvement.

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"Messi is the most perfect of them all because he can make others play, and he can score himself, but he has weaknesses, contrary to what some people think, " he told RTL, as quoted by Sportskeeda.

Addressing Messi's weaknesses, Arsene noted that the 2022 World Cup winner struggles in aerial duels and is not particularly strong in defensive duties.

However, he was quick to emphasise that Messi's strengths far outweigh these shortcomings.

"If you analyse his game, he's not very good in the air, he's not great defensively. But you don't make a living out of your weaknesses; you make a living out of your strengths.

"Therefore, the coach must emphasise the strengths as much as possible and put players around this person who hides his weaknesses."

Messi names the top clubs in 2024

In a recent publication, Sports Brief reported that Lionel Messi offered his perspective on the top clubs in 2024.

Despite his long and illustrious career at Barcelona, Messi overlooked his former team and identified Manchester City and Real Madrid as the leading powerhouses in club football.