Messi Breaks Silence on Mexico Feuds and Delivers Bold Take on Liga MX vs MLS Battle
Argentina and Lionel Messi have consistently troubled Mexico in recent World Cup encounters, creating growing tension over the years. However, despite La Albiceleste's superiority, Messi disclosed that Argentina "approached the match with anxiety" when they met El Tri during Qatar 2022.
Messi opened up during an interview on the Miro de Atrás Podcast, hosted by his former Argentina colleague and Liga MX icon Nahuel Guzmán. During their extensive discussion, they covered various aspects of Mexican football, including the latest encounter between Messi and El Tri.
"We [Argentina] entered that match [versus Mexico] genuinely nervous," Messi confessed. "Subconsciously we were concerned that despite our journey, we might face group stage elimination, especially against Mexico, a squad that consistently challenged us. We carried that worry of defeat."
Argentina triumphed over Mexico 2–0, a victory that sparked their 2022 World Cup championship campaign and essentially ended El Tri's tournament aspirations. After the game, renowned Mexican boxer Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez criticized Messi for dropping a Mexico jersey on the locker room floor, escalating the "feud" between El Tri and La Albiceleste.
"That incident triggered Mexican hostility toward me," Messi admitted. "But there was nothing significant there. I exchanged jerseys with [Andrés] Guardado and simply placed it down. It was soaked with perspiration, like mine, so that's standard locker room behavior. A major controversy emerged from that, but it truly meant nothing."
Mexico's resentment toward Argentina and Messi stems primarily from three World Cup losses El Tri has suffered against La Albiceleste this century. However, for Messi, no rivalry exists.
Messi Reveals He Watches Liga MX, Gives Verdict on MLS Rivalry
Messi Reveals He Watches Liga MX, Gives Verdict on MLS Rivalry
The discussion shifted from international competition to club football, with Messi expressing his views on Liga MX and the developing rivalry with Major League Soccer.
"I never experienced issues [with Mexico]," Messi elaborated. "I've mentioned to Patón [Guzman] and stated repeatedly that I follow Liga MX, particularly since relocating here [to the U.S.]. In Europe it's more challenging due to time zones, but here you consume considerable Mexican football, just as Mexico likely follows MLS extensively given the proximity.
"I believe [MLS's development to challenge Liga MX] mirrors what occurred internationally, as the U.S. and Mexico are closely matched. The U.S. men's national team performed excellently in recent World Cups, and MLS organizations expanded significantly.
"When Mexican teams visit and compete here [U.S.], it's challenging for them. But I heard "El Turco" [Toluca manager Antonio Mohamed] comment after the Leagues Cup defeat and he's correct, MLS clubs traveling to Mexico creates a significant advantage for Mexican teams.
"That explains why Mexican teams consistently win the [Concacaf Champions Cup]. However, I believe MLS's progress is remarkable and beneficial for Mexico as well, because it creates awareness, helping it continue developing and striving to surpass MLS again, to remain superior.
"But the truth is that it's more difficult than previously for Mexican teams when they visit here, and for U.S. teams it's extremely challenging to compete in Mexico, due to multiple reasons."
Messi: Mexico Should Take Advantage of 'Beautiful Opportunity'
Messi: Mexico Should Take Advantage of 'Beautiful Opportunity'
Considering the future and the rapidly approaching 2026 World Cup, Messi thinks Mexico should maximize hosting the tournament. Yet he also acknowledged it might work against El Tri.
"An incredible opportunity awaits you [Mexico], for the U.S.," Messi stated. "Hosting the World Cup domestically. It will create impact, positively or negatively, but it will matter.
"If circumstances develop favorably, it could be a wonderful chance, because home advantage is evident. However, if things deteriorate, that's also apparent."
Messi himself will pursue consecutive World Cup victories this summer, leading a team that enters as among the top contenders for the trophy. Nevertheless, Messi offered one final comment about El Tri before the World Cup begins.
"Hopefully we avoid facing each other again."