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via Imago

via Imago

Lionel Messi and Max Verstappen are two of the most renowned figures in their respective sports. While the Argentinian soccer star’s name shines as a beacon in the beautiful game, the Dutch racer, on the other hand, always manages to captivate the F1 world. But in an interesting turn of events, the two titans of their fields have an intriguing connection that former Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has drawn.

Koeman’s latest admission has brought together the worlds of both soccer and F1, which will certainly stir a meaningful debate within the fanbase of both sports.

Ronald Koeman compares Lionel Messi and Max Verstappen

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Renowned Netherlands soccer figure and coach, Ronald Koeman, has drawn an intriguing and insightful parallel between the current Dutch racing sensation, Max Verstappen, and the reigning Ballon d’Or holder, Lionel Messi. Koeman has identified significant resemblances between these two athletes. While speaking Formula1.NL, Ronald Koeman said, “I see similarities with Lionel Messi. The will to win, at all costs. Being able to be tough, to be on top of things when something is not fixed. You can see it in Max, in his demeanour, in his look, in the venom in his eyes. He decides.” 

The gaffer continued by stating an instance. “For example, if he changes tyres, he doesn’t ask, he reports it. He takes the responsibility. Messi, who I worked with at Barcelona for a year and a half, has that too. And, another similarity, they are pure enthusiasts.” Indeed, these words from Koeman’s mouth will surely bring contentment to both Messi and Verstappen. Notably, both of these revered sports figures have yet another interesting connection through their other significant halves. 

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Another unique link between Messi and Verstappen 

Interestingly, Lionel Messi and Max Verstappen share a unique connection through their respective partners. This connection is evident in the close friendship between Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and Verstappen’s girlfriend, the Vogue model Kelly Piquet. The two couples have been frequently seen together on various occasions, with the most recent instance occurring in March 2023. 

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They attended the prestigious Louis Vuitton fashion show in Paris as honored guests. Kelly Piquet even posted a selfie from the event on her Instagram story, accompanied by the caption, “Sitting next to the sweetest,” providing further evidence of their strong bond.

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