From Legends to Current Stars: Where Are Messi's Top 10 Teammates Now?

Lionel Messi has shared the pitch with some legendary footballers from Barcelona to PSG to Inter Miami today, but which did he most enjoy linking up with? Let's take a look at 10 of Messi’s favorite teammates and where they are now.

Ronaldinho

Messi has often expressed what it meant to share a pitch with the great Brazilian Ballon d’Or winner during his breakthrough at Barcelona. After leaving Barca in 2008, Ronaldinho spent time at AC Milan and later won championships in Brazil with Flamengo and Atletico Mineiro. He retired in 2015 but still participates in charity matches.

Deco

Now serving as Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco maintains a close relationship with Messi. He hinted at a possible reunion, stating, "Messi will definitely play a farewell game at Barcelona."

Samuel Eto’o

Eto’o had a remarkable career winning back-to-back trebles with different clubs. After retiring in 2019, he became president of the Cameroonian FA, making headlines for both positive and controversial reasons.

Luis Suarez

The Uruguayan has combined with Messi for over a hundred goals and reunited with him in Miami, where they are enjoying their twilight years in the MLS.

Andres Iniesta

After retiring in 2018, Iniesta played in Japan and the UAE. He has expressed his desire to return to Barcelona as a coach in the future.

Xavi Hernandez

Xavi returned to Barcelona as a coach but faced challenges in his third year. He is currently seeking opportunities with European clubs.

Sergio Busquets

Busquets continues to play alongside Messi in Miami, with their contracts expiring at the end of 2025. Their future together remains uncertain.

Neymar

Neymar left PSG for Al-Hilal in 2023, but injuries have hindered his performance, leading to speculation about a return to his boyhood club, Santos.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Ibrahimovic had a brief stint at Barcelona, winning La Liga but clashing with Guardiola. He retired in 2023 and now serves as a senior advisor at AC Milan.

David Villa

Villa retired in 2019 after a successful MLS career. He remains active as an entrepreneur and is the owner of the DV7 Group, managing football academies worldwide.