“Messi performed alongside me; I did not participate alongside Messi” – This statement reflects the frustration expressed by the former Barcelona star in response to enquiries regarding Lionel Messi.

“Messi participated alongside me; I did not participate alongside Messi.”

This statement reflects the intense frustration exhibited by former Barcelona star Samuel Eto’o in response to an inquiry regarding Lionel Messi.

The former striker from Cameroon competed alongside the diminutive Argentinean for a duration of five seasons at Camp Nou. Eto’o had recently joined Barcelona when Messi emerged onto the scene.

The esteemed striker observed as Lionel Messi evolved into a formidable force on the global stage before him.

When a reporter informed Eto’o that he had ‘played with Messi’ during a discussion in 2021, as referenced by SPORT, the Cameroonian did not respond favourably to the remark.

Eto’o asserted that the Argentinean had participated during his tenure, rather than the reverse.

“Certainly not.” I had the opportunity to play alongside Messi; however, it was not the case that I played with him in a leading capacity.

During my time, I had the opportunity to play alongside Messi, which distinguishes that experience. “Completely distinct,” remarked Eto’o.

It is likely that Eto’o’s response was made in jest, as he has previously expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to have played alongside Lionel Messi.

The two athletes competed together on the field 105 times for the Catalan giants, culminating in their achievement of the European treble in 2009.

The Cameroonian athlete joined the club in 2004, and upon his departure in 2009, he had recorded a total of 130 goals from 199 appearances in various competitions.

He secured three league championships, two UEFA Champions League titles, one Copa del Rey, and two Supercopa de España trophies.

In conjunction with Ronaldinho, Eto’o played a crucial role in shaping Messi’s early development.