Lionel Messi, the FC Barcelona icon and now with Inter Miami, has been identified as intellectually exceptional by expert Jana Martinez-Piqueras, as reported by MARCA.
It’s evident to all that Messi is a ball genius, displaying his skills early at Newell’s Old Boys before moving to Barca’s La Masia academy in the early 2000s.
Martinez-Piqueras, an expert in the field, highlights that Messi is believed to have ‘altas capacidades’ in Spanish, indicating remarkable intellectual capacities.
She expressed to MARCA that Messi may be viewed as someone with significant intellectual capabilities. She emphasized that the traditional association of high intellect with test scores or IQ numbers is outdated in the scientific community today.
Martinez-Piqueras elaborates that Messi is seen as a genius in how he strategizes plays and makes precise decisions with the ball. She highlights that Messi, similar to individuals with exceptional abilities, has the power to influence and transform the environment in which he operates.
According to Martinez-Piqueras, attributing Messi’s on-pitch brilliance solely to his ankle rotation is a misconception. She expressed concern that many talented individuals, including athletes, with high intellectual capacities often go unnoticed and lack training in the cognitive aspect, leading to untapped potential.
Messi, the most decorated player in his sport with numerous titles and a record seven Ballon d’Or awards, has undoubtedly exceeded expectations on the field. At 36 years old, he is approaching retirement as one of the greatest – possibly the greatest – player to have graced the game.
