"He is a legend already and his successes would only continue to endure. But Lionel Messi is not destined to be the greatest ever," claimed one DNA India journalist back in 2012.
"Unfortunately, Messi's greatness will be diffused by his performances in international matches. The Barca superstar will not be able to rekindle the magic similar to his feats at his club.
"Messi would be sensational in the FIFA World Cup 2014, but will not be able to lead Argentina to win the crown, a la Maradona and Pele. The gold that he won in the 2008 Olympics would most probably be his best effort for Argentina.
"His only hope though is a strong chance to lead Argentina to the Copa America crown in 2015. Hence, by the end of his career, Messi would be relegated to the second rung in the list of all-time football greats.
"The three times consecutive FIFA player of the year will not be able to make it the fourth time in 2012 or 2013. The #10 of Barcelona will continue to enthrall his fans with superlative performances for his club throughout 2012-2015. But his best year would remain 2011 when he propelled Barca to five out of six possible trophies," he concluded.
Well, this is possibly the worst prediction ever made by the press. Messi went on to win the FIFA Player of the Year (Ballon d'Or) prize a couple of times after that and has never ever had a real dip in form (except for the current season maybe, but that's also a big question).
Be careful with what you say or predict, it may turn into something really awkward!
