Brazilian football icon Ricardo Kaka recently lavished praise on Lionel Messi, highlighting the Argentine maestro’s unwavering mentality.
The admiration follows a viral moment where Messi was seen in tears after being subbed off due to an ankle injury in the Copa America final against Colombia.
Kaka, who shone brightly at AC Milan, believes that the 2022 World Cup winner’s burning desire to achieve more sets him apart despite his numerous accolades.
As Fox Sports noted, Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient and the most decorated footballer in history was visibly emotional after his injury.
Lionel Messi was emotional after being subbed out of the Copa America final with injury.
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— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) July 15, 2024
However, his sorrow was short-lived as Lautaro Martinez’s extra-time goal secured a victory for La Albiceleste, transforming Messi’s tears into triumphant cheers.
Reflecting on the poignant scene, Kaka, himself one of football’s modern greats, extolled Messi’s mentality.
“Messi must raise his head up and know himself well. They always said that Messi does not know that he is Messi, and today I see that happening.
“He has won 8 Ballon d’Ors, the World Cup, and 5 Golden Shoes, and he is now the most decorated with titles.
“He was crying because he could not complete the match. What a great mentality,” Kaka remarked, as quoted by Messi World FC.
Kaka, who played alongside Messi’s arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid, also acknowledged the fans’ unforgettable support, noting that not only Argentines but also Colombians chanted Messi’s name when he cried.
He emphasised that this global admiration is something to be proud of, as the 37-year-old has earned love from around the world.