Youngster Tyler Hall has had the opportunity to witness the renowned Lionel Messi’s skill up close and personal. Tyler has given a rare glimpse into what it’s like to play on the same pitch as the World Cup winner.
Tyler Hall of Inter Miami described what makes Lionel Messi unique and acknowledged that working out with the superstar is like something from “a video game.”
The US public’s fascination in the World Cup winner during his summer visit was unmatched since David Beckham’s transfer to the LA Galaxy in 2007. It would also seem that during his first few months in MLS, the great forward’s skills even astounded his teammates.
In fact, Inter Miami II prospect Hall has been very candid about how he struggled to believe what he was seeing when he faced the legendary Argentine player in training. The fact that the 36-year-old has only seldom been allowed to share the pitch with other athletes was not lost on the Herons academy standout.
He gave a fascinating glimpse into what it’s like to share a changing room with one of the most well-known people in the world while speaking to FIFA’s official website, saying: “The first day Messi visited, it didn’t feel genuine. It was as though I were playing a video game or something. I occasionally become aware of his proximity to me.
“He’s a really friendly man. He always approaches me to shake my hand and has a smile on his face. He is a wonderful person and wonderful with all the young players.”
The 17-year-old youngster also elaborated on the experience of competing with the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner and the astounding ease with which he appears to understand the game.
“I played 11v11 against them, he continued. It’s absurd. They simply play and think more quickly. It’s great to have them play beside you at this young age. Messi actually faced off against me on my side of the pitch.
“If you watch Messi’s games, you see him walking around, scanning the pitch, then all of a sudden he checks his shoulder and then he’s just gone!”
He moves so quickly, Hall continued, that it was challenging for him to keep up. Even though he’s one of the top players in the world, I was annoyed because I wanted to be able to guard him. I want to improve so that I can stand up for him effectively in the future.