Messi Still Capable of Winning the World Cup
Collected Photo
At 38, Lionel Messi is entering the final chapter of his career and preparing to play what could be his last World Cup. Four years after producing moments of brilliance as Argentina’s captain, the question remains whether he can deliver on a similar level again. Former teammate Pablo Zabaleta believes Messi still has the ability to help Argentina win the World Cup.
In an interview with The National, Zabaleta said that age has not taken away Messi’s ability to influence matches. He explained that if Argentina can manage their energy without the ball and then quickly find Messi in advanced positions after regaining possession, the forward can still decide games. He added that Messi continues to possess the ability to score goals and win matches, which remains the most important requirement at a World Cup.
Zabaleta also expressed that this phase of Messi’s career should be appreciated, as it could be his final appearance in a World Cup. He said he hopes Messi still has moments of individual brilliance capable of changing matches and suggested that there is no reason Argentina cannot win the tournament again if that happens.
Messi has been in strong form this season with Inter Miami CF. Zabaleta believes that form can carry into the World Cup, noting similarities between Inter Miami’s setup and the current Argentina national team. He observed that Messi now plays in a system where teammates are fully committed to working for him, running extensively and supporting him throughout matches.
He further explained that Messi remains the player who produces decisive creative moments and drives the team forward. According to him, Messi is still highly dangerous when receiving the ball in attacking areas outside the penalty box, where he can beat multiple defenders and finish scoring chances. However, he also noted that Messi is no longer the same player he was five years ago, when he could drop deep, collect the ball near the halfway line, and single-handedly run through entire defenses.
Argentina, under Lionel Scaloni, is aiming to become only the third nation after Italy and Brazil to successfully defend the World Cup title. Zabaleta expressed confidence in the squad’s mentality, pointing out that even after winning the World Cup and going 39 matches unbeaten, the team continues to show strong hunger and competitiveness.
He added that a new generation is emerging within the squad, while experienced players such as Messi, Nicolás Otamendi, Rodrigo De Paul, and Leandro Paredes continue to provide leadership. Based on this balance of youth and experience, he remains optimistic about Argentina’s chances at the upcoming World Cup.
