Colombian journalist considered Messi “finished” and now praises him

Colombian sports journalist Carlos Antonio Vélez has had to eat his words after prematurely writing off Lionel Messi. Vélez had previously dismissed the Argentine superstar, suggesting that Messi's best days were behind him. However, Messi's stellar performances in the MLS have forced the Colombian commentator to reassess his opinion.

• 

  Recommended

  Neymar surprises, the announcement that all of Barcelona would be waiting for in 2025

• 

  Recommended

  New bombshell in Madrid: the amount the Merengues are preparing to snatch Haaland

The controversy began ahead of the South American World Cup qualifiers when Messi was ruled out due to an ankle injury. Vélez, known for his outspoken views, took the opportunity to criticize the Argentine, suggesting that his influence on the team had waned.

"We're not talking about the Messi of five years ago, we're talking about today's Messi. Today's Messi is playing with 10 men," Vélez stated at the time.

Vélez Eats Humble Pie After Underestimating Messi

However, Messi's subsequent performances in the MLS have proved the Colombian wrong. The Argentine has been in sensational form, showcasing his exceptional skills and leading his team to victory. This has forced Vélez to admit that he was mistaken.

"Messi is sensational because in a clear stage of decline, he scored six goals in five days," Vélez recently stated. "In the weekend's game [vs. ...] he was simply extraordinary."

Vélez's about-face highlights the difficulty of predicting the end of a legendary player's career. Messi has repeatedly defied expectations and continues to prove that he is one of the greatest footballers of all time.