How Messi is still dominating at the World Cup at 39

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleLionel Messi's exceptional World Cup performance, despite his age and physical stature, challenges the traditional view of athletic greatness in football. Experts suggest that success in football stems more from perception and insight, rather than solely physical attributes like speed or strength, echoing Johan Cruyff's philosophy. Studies reveal that elite players, including Messi, continuously scan the pitch before receiving the ball to gather vital information on player positions and opportunities. This 'visual exploration' allows players to make quicker, more effective decisions, resulting in faster ball releases and more impactful forward passes. The capacity for earlier perception and reaction, rather than physical prowess, is highlighted as the foundation of Messi's sustained brilliance, a skill that can be trained. In fullMessi is old, short and slow – this is his secret to success at the World CupMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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