This article recounts the career of Colombian footballer Hugo Rodallega, highlighting his early success at the South American U20 Championship, his rise to cult hero status in English football, and his enduring passion for the game.
Hugo Rodallega established a cult hero legacy in English football – but his impact in the game pales in comparison to Lionel Messi.
It was then that he was reported to have claimed he was the superior player, a comment that stuck with him across his journeyed career in Mexico, England, Turkey and Brazil. Speaking to Diario AS in 2023, Rodallega clarified it was all a misunderstanding. "I'm not better than Messi. I'm not better than anyone," he insisted.
Such was the magnitude of the discussion around the claim that Rodallega would go on to seek out Messi and speak to him face-to-face to clarify the situation. "I spoke to him, I spoke to Zabaleta years later, when we were in England, Zabaleta was at Manchester City and when we faced each other we stayed talking, he asked me and we talked about it," he explained.
While Messi's career soared to remarkable heights, Rodallega carved out his own path. His goalscoring prowess for Liga MX side Necaxa caught Wigan's attention, leading to a £4.5million transfer in January 2009.
FOOTBALL COLOMBIA ENGLAND LIGAMX PREMIER LEAGUE
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Time and TV channel info for Scotland v Ireland in U20 Six Nations tonightIreland will be looking to bounce back against Scotland following their opening night defeat to England
Read more »
Canavan brothers are a “frightening” prospect for Cuala says Tyrone U20 managerDarragh and Ruairi Canavan combined for 1-13 against Dr Crokes in the semi-final and bid to take the next step against Cuala in Sunday's All-Ireland final
Read more »
Championship club to receive club-record fee from Crystal Palace for England U20 star...Simon Jordan reveals to Jim White the worst Crystal Palace signing he ever made, which made him wish he bought a boat instead.
Read more »
Man City secret January transfer meeting is awkward but significantManchester City sporting director Txiki Begiristain was with his successor Hugo Viana in Manchester this week
Read more »
Amazon Slashes Price on Hugo Boss Aftershave - Perfect Valentine's Day Gift?Amazon is offering a limited-time discount on the popular Hugo Boss BOSS Bottled Elixir aftershave, making it a steal for fragrance enthusiasts and gift-givers this Valentine's Day.
Read more »
£40 houndstooth puffer jacket is the best lookalike for Hugo Boss’ £230 versionIf you've been lusting after the £230 Hugo Boss houndstooth puffer jacket we've found the perfect alternative at Simply Be that looks just as good as the real thing for £40
Read more »