Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has waxed lyrical about Lionel Messi after witnessing the 39-year-old’s feats at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. De la Fuente reckons Messi is operating at the same level as a 19 or 23-year-old, crediting the latter for pushing boundaries and setting an example for the world to follow.
Despite leading Argentina to 2022 FIFA World Cup glory, Lionel Messi still remains as dedicated as ever to retain their title. While he has missed two penalties so far, the Inter Miami ace is arguably having the best World Cup of his iconic career, recording eight goals and one assist in five appearances to date.
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Messi also recently scored one goal and provided one assist to help La Albiceleste secure a thrilling 3-2 win over Egypt in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, despite trailing 2-0 in the 78th minute (July 7).
During the Belgium pre-match press conference, De la Fuente hailed Messi, stating (via Fabrizio Romano):
“Messi looks like he’s 19 or 23 years old. He’s performing at an exceptional level. It’s not just his maturity anymore, but above all his commitment. He’s tireless, he’s never satisfied. He always wants more, every single day. He’s an example for all of his teammates, for football lovers, and for everyone who’s just starting out in the game.”
Lionel Messi-led Argentina will next face Switzerland in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday, July 11.
“We’ll give it our all” – Switzerland stars relishing the chance to face off against Lionel Messi’s Argentina at FIFA World Cup Q/F
Switzerland stars Cedric Itten and Remo Freuler are relishing the opportunity to share the pitch with Lionel Messi in their upcoming FIFA World Cup quarter-final clash. However, they fired a warning to Argentina, claiming that they will be ready to give it their all to help the Nati progress to the final four.
Itten stated (via GOAL):
“It doesn’t get much better than being able to play against Messi. He’s in good form, and we definitely need to be ready for the next game. But you can also see that every match is close – we’re looking forward to Kansas.”
Freuler then added:
“I’ve never played against Messi in my career, that’s certainly something special. We deserved to reach the quarter-finals against Argentina. But one thing is clear: We won’t be satisfied with that. We’ll give it our all.”
Under Murat Yakin’s management, Switzerland have impressed at the World Cup and are currently on a eight-match unbeaten streak. They recently defeated Colombia 4-3 on penalties to progress to the quarter-finals after the game ended 0-0 after extra time.
Edited by Silas Sud