If Messi Was English, He'd Be An Accountant

Hope that title caught your attention.

I read that quote (title) on here a couple of months ago, and laughed at how true that is.

As we know Messi had serious physical problems when he was younger. He had a problem with growing, and Barcelona took a chance on him. Look at him now.

It was obvious he had talent. But do you think he'd a footballer right now if he was English?

They'd break the news to him by saying he should look for another career.
"Way too small, sorry."

English people wonder why nations like Spain, France, Brazil, Holland, Italy and Portugal consistently produce 'world class' players.

One detrimental factor in England producing a player who possesses genuine skill, vision and technique is due to their obsession with power, physique and pace.

If a young kid is small and is technically more superior to all his peers he gets turned down.

He can be Zidane.
Basically untouchable in midfield, with none of the grafters touching him. Yet they'd deem him "too small" or "too light" and dismiss him.
Rather opting for a bigger and hardworking player with little talent.

Of course pace and power is a valuable trait to have. But only if it's coupled with something else. Whether that be intelligence, skill or great touch.

Same can be said with technique too.

But a player with technique and intelligence can get away with far more than a grafter can.

The English coaches are the ones that need to shoulder the blame.

If they encouraged young kids to hold on to the ball more, instead of bellowing "get rid of it" every few minutes, the kids would love to hold on to the ball and do something constructive with it.
Enjoyment and relaxation is when a player can cause the most damage.
And as a result they'd eventually be technically adept.

Sadly things are far more dire at the lower levels of football (grassroots). The coaches are completely inept and out of touch with football.
Most of them have absolutely no clue what they're talking about.
I don't give a toss whether he has an FA badge or not. If the coaches and managers knew what they were doing England, the largest footballing nation in the world wouldn't have this problem.

Unfortunately, a lot of the fans, parents, etc don't know just how big a problem this is.

The most shocking thing with English players is how they're unable to switch up tempo. They only know one way of playing: 180mph.

As soon as they come across as half decent team who can retain the ball, regardless of player quality, they're in trouble.

I have nothing but love and respect for English people, but the problem stems way down to the very foundations of youth football. English football mentality is totally corrupt. Until that changes, nothing will. And the disappointment and embarrassment will continue.

By the way, why is work rate is used to cover up for an attacking player lacking ability/talent? Hear it every time.