Argentina: Luis de la Fuente also raves about Lionel Messi

10.07.26 FT World Cup

Spain

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Belgium

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Long before the quarter-final of this 2026 World Cup between Spain and Belgium, Spanish manager Luis de la Fuente spoke out and weighed in on Lionel Messi.

During a press conference, the Spanish tactician reflected on the level Lionel Messi has shown throughout this tournament. Luis de la Fuente believes that the Argentine forward, who has already netted 8 goals since the start of the competition, is defying his age.

"Lionel Messi looks like he's 19 or 23 years old. He's playing at an exceptional level, thanks in part to his maturity—he's lived through these moments 50,000 times—but above all thanks to his commitment. He's tireless, insatiable, always hungry for more every single day. He's an example for all his teammates, for countless football fans, and for those taking their very first steps in the world of football," said the La Roja coach.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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