Argentina captain Lionel Messi has paid an emotional tribute to his teammates ahead of the Albiceleste’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against Egypt national football team.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner expressed his gratitude to the squad, saying their support has allowed him to continue competing at the highest level.
“The truth is that I am deeply grateful to my teammates and I am very happy to compete alongside them,” Messi said.
He described the Argentina dressing room as a close-knit family, adding: “They are friends. It’s a very beautiful, very united group. It makes me happy to hear all those affectionate words.”
Messi also admitted that the commitment of his teammates has helped him extend his international career.
“Thanks to this team and these teammates, I can be at another World Cup today and I can keep competing.”
The 39-year-old further praised the squad’s selflessness, saying: “I know they make an extra effort so that I can keep competing, and they do it from the heart because they truly feel it.”
Argentina will face Egypt in a highly anticipated World Cup knockout clash as Messi looks to lead the defending champions one step closer to another title.