In a tactical system where each player takes turns each position, depending on the phases of the game, Messi is only the embodiment of a system and of a collective identity.

In a tactical system where each player takes turns each position, depending on the phases of the game, Messi is only the embodiment of a system and of a collective identity

While the game produced by Barcelona exalts the notion of collective, is there not a paradox to offer an award to Lionel Messi as if his achievements were due to his individual skills. The appointment of Pep Guardiola as Barcelona manager revolutionized the game of the Blaugrana. If you doubt this, I can only advise you too watch again the match against Santos in the final of the Club World Cup, this  3-7-0  system is a tactical marvel of invention. I also recommend this classico in December 2011 when Mourinho drove Guardiola crazy changing three times his gaming system in 90min.

Let’s celebrate rather FC Barcelona in its entirety, and enjoy every performance of this team. Like the Chicago Bulls of Michael Jordan in the 90’s, embodying both a way to play and a sport, the FC Barcelona of Lionel Messi turns  football into an art, and is making history.