Franck Rijkaard breaks silence for Lionel Messi

Frank Rijkaard has lived in retirement since 2014 when his adventure as Saudi Arabia coach ended. The coach has withdrawn from the spotlight, but he broke his silence for ‘Helden Magazine’ on the occasion of Leo Messi winning the World Cup in Qatar.

Frank Rijkaard stated in an interview that while he didn’t shed tears over the World Cup final, he was overjoyed when Leo Messi led Argentina to victory. He said, “He is truly unique and I watched the final mainly as a Messi fan. I believe he deserved the win.” Rijkaard also shared a personal story about how his relationship with Messi grew beyond just working together at FC Barcelona. He mentioned that his son Santi wanted to attend a Barcelona game and through the team delegate, Carles Naval, he was able to arrange for a training session visit where Messi was very friendly and accommodating with them. He said, “That was especially fun for my son and when I met Messi again after a long time, he made me feel special. He has become the great star that the entire football world is watching with their mouths open."

Frank Rijkaard discussed why he rarely participates in media events, saying “I’m not a fan of giving interviews and I don’t like being in front of cameras. But sometimes I feel compelled to do them. It’s not a must, but rather something I do from my heart, otherwise I wouldn’t do it.” He also described himself as an unconventional character in the world of football, stating “I’m a bit strange, even though I had a successful career as a football player. My character is complicated and I don’t enjoy being in the spotlight. I prefer to stand with my back against the wall. That’s just who I am and I’m comfortable with that role.”

Frank Rijkaard, now 60, stated that he does not plan to return to coaching. However, he mentioned that he would consider serving as an advisor if someone close to him were to ask. He made it clear that he would prefer to work behind the scenes and not have it be publicly known. He said, “I am open to it if someone wants to ask for my advice. I like to give my honest opinion when asked. I won’t seek it out, someone will have to come to me.”