‘Too Nervous’: Christian Pulisic Recalls Meeting Lionel Messi by Chance During a Doping Test

Lionel Messi is one of the best players the footballing world has ever seen. Although he isn’t the most dominant physically, his vision and his incredible skill sets him apart from other stars in the league.

Messi certainly has been an inspiration to many. Given how the Argentine has performed over the years and has dominated other teams with his skill, the 6-time Ballon D’or winner is the testament that incredible physicality isn’t necessary to dominate the game.

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Christian Pulisic opens up about meeting Lionel Messi for the first time

Currently, there are many young players who are being touted as the next being thing. Be it prodigal striker Erling Haaland or midfielders like Pedri, some players have become household names. One such players is Christian Pulisic.

The American winger who came through the ranks in Borussia Dortmund currently dons the Chelsea jersey. With his electrifying pace and incredible dribbling skills, Pulisic has established himself as a mainstay in Thomas Tuchel’s lineup. Growing up, the now 20-year-old idolised two players, Luis Figo and Lionel Messi.

In a recent interview, the American opened up about meeting Messi during an international friendly. “I played against Argentina and we suffered that day,..We were 2-0 down at half-time and Lionel Messi was incredible. I came on at half-time thinking, ‘Oh no, this will be fun.'”

The 20-year-old revealed how he ultimately met with Messi during a doping test. “Messi and I were chosen for random doping tests after, so I was sat there next to him trying to be cool, aged 17. I told our doctor to get my phone. I had to get my phone to have a picture taken with him.”

Pulisic added, “We couldn’t really communicate, and I was too nervous to try and speak to him, but I had to ask him for a photo by gesticulating. He was really nice about the whole thing.”

This was certainly a fan-boy moment for the American winger. Meeting your idol is always a dream and Pulisic certainly fulfilled his dream. While the American continues to idolize Messi, the Argentine is well aware of the youngster’s talent.

In an interview back in March 2020, Messi picked Pulisic in the top 15 young stars set to dominate football. The 20-year-old is certainly headed to the right path under Tuchel and Chelsea. If he can remain injury free and produce output, there is no doubting that Pulisic will be one to watch out for. Do you think Pulisic will succeed?