Home / Sports / Mathieu: I was a better free-kick taker than Messi!
Mathieu: I was a better free-kick taker than Messi!
27 Feb
Summary
- Mathieu doubted his role at Barcelona before signing.
- Valencia declined to match his salary offer from Barcelona.
- He believes he was a superior free-kick taker to Messi.
Former Barcelona defender Jeremy Mathieu reflected on his 2014 transfer to the club, discussing his initial hesitation. He revealed that Luis Enrique personally convinced him to join, stating, "I love how you play. And if I'm the coach, I want you on the team." Mathieu, then 30, questioned whether he would secure sufficient playing time.
Before finalising the move, Mathieu communicated with Valencia, indicating he would stay if they matched Barcelona's offer of a €200,000 annual salary increase. Valencia stated they could not afford the raise, prompting Mathieu's departure to Camp Nou.
Upon arriving at Barcelona, Mathieu found a welcoming environment, particularly noting Lionel Messi's incredible skill in training. He also described the "magical" atmosphere during the famous Champions League comeback against Paris Saint-Germain. In a surprising comment, Mathieu playfully suggested he was a better free-kick taker than Messi.
