Messi Shares Ronaldinho's Advice on Overcoming Nerves

Lionel Messi revealed that at the age of 16, he struggled to adapt to Barcelona's first-team environment due to his shy personality. Speaking in Oviedo before receiving the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, Messi recounted how senior players, including Ronaldinho, Samuel Eto'o, Xavi, and Carlos Puyol, encouraged him to ignore the pressure and enjoy the game.

Messi stated that he felt intimidated by the presence of established stars but was advised to focus on his love for football. He also reflected on the significance of accepting defeat in football, noting that players must learn to deal with disappointment as losses are common in the sport.

Messi emphasized that one should be satisfied with their effort regardless of the outcome, stating that knowing how to lose is fundamental because players lose more often than they win. His comments highlight the mental resilience required in professional sports.