German football legend Lothar Matthaus emphasized that India must prioritize coaching quality at grassroots levels to advance its football development. Speaking in Kolkata as the chief guest at the inaugural Police Women's Friendship Cup Football Tournament final, the World Cup winner cited Cape Verde's qualification for the 2026 tournament despite having only 500,000 residents as evidence that talent alone cannot guarantee success. Matthaus stressed that federations, governments, clubs and academies must collaborate effectively while recruiting skilled coaches who can nurture young players similarly to how quality teachers produce strong students.
The former midfielder also addressed comparisons between Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi, noting that evolving eras make direct assessments difficult. While acknowledging both players alongside Cristiano Ronaldo as transformative figures who inspire young athletes, Matthaus expressed a preference for Messi's technical approach over Ronaldo's power-based style without declaring either superior.
The former midfielder also addressed comparisons between Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi, noting that evolving eras make direct assessments difficult. While acknowledging both players alongside Cristiano Ronaldo as transformative figures who inspire young athletes, Matthaus expressed a preference for Messi's technical approach over Ronaldo's power-based style without declaring either superior.
