Quick Read
- Former Barcelona defender Jérémy Mathieu claimed he was better at free kicks than Lionel Messi.
- The remark was made during an interview on the SafePlay program.
- Mathieu recalled his memorable free-kick goal against Elche in the 2015 Copa del Rey.
- He was a key player in Barcelona’s treble-winning squad in 2015.
- Mathieu retired in 2020 due to a knee injury and now works at an Intersport store near Marseille.
MARSEILLE (Azat TV) – Former Barcelona defender Jérémy Mathieu has stirred significant debate among football fans by suggesting he was a superior free-kick taker to none other than Lionel Messi. The unexpected remark, delivered with a smile on the SafePlay program, has not only sparked discussion but also brought renewed attention to Mathieu’s distinguished career and his quiet life post-retirement, now working at a sports store near Marseille.
Mathieu’s audacious claim immediately caught the attention of the football world, particularly given Messi’s legendary status. Lionel Messi, widely considered one of the greatest players in soccer history, built a significant part of his reputation on his mastery of free kicks, having scored 69 direct set-piece goals across his illustrious career. While Messi’s precision and consistency from dead-ball situations were a defining attacking weapon for Barcelona, Mathieu, primarily a defender, recalled his own memorable strike.
Jérémy Mathieu’s Audacious Claim About Free Kicks
Speaking on the SafePlay program, Mathieu playfully stated, “I think I was better at free kicks than Lionel Messi.” This comment, made in a light-hearted tone, revisits a golden era at Barcelona where both players shared a dressing room under manager Luis Enrique. Mathieu specifically referenced his powerful effort against Elche in the 2015 Copa del Rey, a thunderbolt from outside the box that showcased his technique and contributed to Barcelona’s 27th triumph in the competition, as reported by World Soccer Talk and Yahoo Sports.
The Frenchman’s remark, while seemingly audacious, is viewed by many as a nostalgic reflection rather than a serious, direct comparison. It adds a layer of personality and confidence to the memory of a squad that dominated Europe. Mathieu’s self-belief, even when playing alongside global superstars, underscores the unique characters within such an elite team.
Mathieu’s Barcelona Legacy and Free-Kick Prowess
Jérémy Mathieu’s journey to Barcelona was somewhat unconventional. He gained prominence as a left-back at Valencia, where he was captain. At 30 years old, he made the move to Barcelona, fully aware that he might be trading regular minutes for a bench spot in a star-studded squad. He confirmed receiving a call from Luis Enrique before the latter was confirmed as Barcelona’s coach, though Mathieu initially maintained skepticism.
Ultimately, Valencia’s refusal to match Barcelona’s offer of an additional 200,000 euros in salary helped tip the balance, leading to his transfer. Mathieu’s first season at Barcelona proved to be magical; he was a key piece in the squad that secured a historic treble (La Liga, Copa del Rey, and UEFA Champions League). Notably, he scored a crucial goal against Real Madrid in a 2-1 El Clásico victory at the Camp Nou, further cementing his place in the team’s folklore.
Life After Football for Jérémy Mathieu
After three seasons with Barcelona, Mathieu departed for Sporting Lisbon. His professional career came to an end in 2020 due to a knee injury. Now 42, his life has transitioned away from the stadium lights and roaring crowds. Mathieu currently works behind the counter at an Intersport store near Marseille, a routine far removed from the high-stakes world of professional football.
His post-soccer life, though quieter, allows his stories and reflections to continue resonating with supporters, offering a glimpse into the confidence and personality that defined his playing career. The free-kick claim serves as a poignant reminder of a player who, despite sharing a pitch with legends, always believed in his own unique abilities.
The resurgence of Mathieu’s playful claim, juxtaposed with his current life, highlights the enduring nature of sports narratives and how former athletes reflect on their contributions, even when overshadowed by unparalleled greatness, offering fans a humanizing perspective on their heroes.