Barcelona’s Lionel Messi has praised the impact that La Masia had on him both as a player and person.
The club’s famous youth setup has nurtured many great players over the years and the Argentine took time to thank the academy for its role in his development.
“Barcelona have given me everything,” Messi said to Barca TV.
“I was educated with the values of La Masia and I am what I am thanks to the values I learned in the youth setup.
“Seeing so many players from the youth setup in the first team is an example to everyone.
“We’re always happy for the players who graduate and come to train with us.
“I want them to enjoy themselves, that’s what this sport is all about.
“If they work hard, make sacrifices and put in the effort, they can realise any dream they set themselves.”
