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Lionel Messi influenced a former Real Madrid star’s decision to join his former club.

Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas has revealed he had a conversation with Lionel Messi before his transfer to Argentine side Newell’s Old Boys. 

The 38-year-old was a long-term rival of Messi’s the pair were on opposite sides of many El Clásicos. However, they became teammates at Paris Saint-Germain. 

Messi spent 17 years in Barcelona where he helped the team to win numerous titles.

Injuries prevented the star from regaining the form that earned him the nickname “little Messi” during his early success at Barcelona.

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Hence, when faced with the prospect of joining Newell’s, he put a call through to one of the club’s very own, Messi. 

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What Navas said 

Although the Albiceleste captain made his senior debut at Barcelona, he was once in Newell’s youth setup, and he has regularly spoken fondly of his memories at the club. 

Hence, according to Navas, Messi spoke glowingly of the club, which encouraged him to put pen to paper. 

“I knew about the club, its history, and the legends who played here,” Navas said after signing. Before coming, I spoke to Messi, and he had nothing but positive things to say.”

“The reception was overwhelming—it gave me goosebumps. I had heard about the atmosphere here, but experiencing it firsthand was something else.”

Newell’s are also elated about the acquisition, as the club’s president, Ruben Capri’s, said:

“Keylor brings an extraordinary level of talent and experience that will elevate Newell’s, our locker room, and Argentine football as a whole. His signing is a win for everyone.”