An 'average' season he's having, some said. Top scorer in La Liga this season. Top scorer in the Champions League this season. In both cases, comfortably.
In 1976, Northern Ireland were drawn against Holland in Rotterdam as one of their group qualifying matches for the World Cup," wrote Bill. "As it happened I sat beside George on the way to the stadium that evening.
“Holland - midway between successive World Cup final appearances - and Cruyff were at their peak at the time. George wasn't. I asked him what he thought of the acknowledged world No1 and he said he thought the Dutchman was outstanding. 'Better than you?' I asked. George looked at me and laughed. 'You're kidding aren't you? I tell you what I'll do tonight... I'll nutmeg Cruyff first chance I get.'
And we both laughed at the thought. "... Five minutes into the game he received the ball wide on the left. Instead of heading towards goal he turned directly infield, weaved his way past at least three Dutchmen and found his way to Cruyff who was wide right. He took the ball to his opponent, dipped a shoulder twice and slipped it between Cruyff's feet. As he ran round to collect it and run on he raised his right fist into the air.”
"Only a few of us in the press box knew what this bravado act really meant. Johan Cruyff the best in the world? Are you kidding? Only an idiot would have thought that on this evening."
Comments
Personally as well, I'd have Ronaldo in my side over Messi (if I was ever lucky enough to choose!)
Messi LF
Suarez CF
Ronaldo RF.
I'd just managed to erase that turd from my memory. He's not fit to lace the boots of the guy that laces the boots of Leo Messi
Story recounted by Billy Elliot of the Guardian:
In 1976, Northern Ireland were drawn against Holland in Rotterdam as one of their group qualifying matches for the World Cup," wrote Bill. "As it happened I sat beside George on the way to the stadium that evening.
“Holland - midway between successive World Cup final appearances - and Cruyff were at their peak at the time. George wasn't. I asked him what he thought of the acknowledged world No1 and he said he thought the Dutchman was outstanding. 'Better than you?' I asked. George looked at me and laughed. 'You're kidding aren't you? I tell you what I'll do tonight... I'll nutmeg Cruyff first chance I get.'
And we both laughed at the thought. "... Five minutes into the game he received the ball wide on the left. Instead of heading towards goal he turned directly infield, weaved his way past at least three Dutchmen and found his way to Cruyff who was wide right. He took the ball to his opponent, dipped a shoulder twice and slipped it between Cruyff's feet. As he ran round to collect it and run on he raised his right fist into the air.”
"Only a few of us in the press box knew what this bravado act really meant. Johan Cruyff the best in the world? Are you kidding? Only an idiot would have thought that on this evening."
Messi (903) has scored or assisted over 10% of them.
* 8 in 15 on English turf.
What club could afford him?
PSG in a swap deal for Neymar? Man City breaking the bank for him?