As the FIFA 2026 World Cup keeps fans around the world engrossed, an old message from the late Nigerian prophet TB Joshua to football icon Lionel Messi has once again gained traction across social media.
“MY CANDID ADVICE TO MESSI – TB JOSHUA. It is not good advice for Lionel Messi to leave Barcelona bitter and offended. It is impossible to establish a healthy relationship with a person who left a previous relationship bitter and offended. This is my candid advice to Messi. History is our boss.”
Messi’s Barcelona exit
A year later, Messi departed Barcelona to sign for Paris Saint-Germain, bringing to a close a remarkable chapter that had spanned more than 20 years with the Catalan giants.
During his time at the club, he established himself as Barcelona’s all-time leading scorer while collecting numerous major trophies.
Looking back, TB Joshua’s remarks have drawn renewed attention, with many pointing to the emotional circumstances and widespread public reaction that surrounded Messi’s departure.
Why the advice matters today
As Messi enters the closing phase of his illustrious career while the FIFA 2026 World Cup unfolds, TB Joshua’s message has re-emerged as a reflection on the emotional realities that often accompany football.
Beyond the sport itself, the advice highlights the value of approaching major life transitions with dignity and composure, a principle that resonates in many aspects of life.
Throughout his lifetime, TB Joshua was widely recognised for offering spiritual guidance and candid observations to prominent public figures. His message to Messi continues to circulate years later, underscoring the lasting impact of his teachings.
With supporters revisiting the post once again, it also serves as a reminder that history often evaluates not only what people accomplish, but also how they navigate moments of change.