Can Lionel Messi Still Earn a World Cup Title Like Sachin Tendulkar?

It is often debated whether Lionel Messi, the legendary football star, has a chance to win another World Cup (WC) similar to the way Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar earned his record-breaking 200 World Cup caps.

Messi’s Age and Experience

One might argue that Messi is already too old for another WC with his current age and experience. However, football history has shown that age is not always the determining factor. Some players have managed to perform well even in their later years, like Andrea Pirlo who played a crucial role in Italy’s 2006 WC victory. Therefore, while the case against Messi is strong, it is not impossible.

Lack of Team Cohesion

As of now, the argument against Messi winning another WC is more compelling. Key issues such as a lack of team cohesion are playing a significant role. Despite having some top players, Argentina often struggles to perform at their best as a collective unit. Figures like Javier Mascherano, a consistent player, still falter under pressure. This inconsistency has translated into poor overall performance for the Argentine team.

Managerial Challenges

Another critical factor in Argentina’s WC prospects is the managerial challenge they face. The recent tenure of the manager, Jorge Sampaoli, was a disaster filled with poor decisions and a lack of discipline. Sampaoli’s failure to inspire and manage the team effectively culminated in one of the worst performances in recent history, particularly the 1-6 loss to Spain before the WC. Such failures have further weakened the team’s chances for success.

Messi’s Future with Argentina

Messi’s longevity with the national team is also in question. After the 2014 and 2018 WC failures, the pressure on him has only increased. His decisions on the field as a team leader, and his vulnerability under pressure, have been under scrutiny. Inconsistencies in performance, such as missing crucial goals in knockout rounds, have raised doubts about his ability to lead the team effectively. The 2022 WC saw a series of disappointing performances, including underwhelming displays against India, Croatia, and Nigeria.

Argentina’s Future Prospects

The Argentine team needs a new generation of players. Recent attempts have fallen short, and with the 2006-2014 generation reaching its peak and now fading, a new wave of talent needs to emerge. Just like other successful teams such as France (2006-2014), Brazil (2008-2016), Spain (2012-2018), and Italy (2008-2012), Argentina is currently experiencing a generational shift. The 2022 WC team is unlikely to be as competitive as the current French, Brazilian, or even German teams, which are at their peak. By 2026, Argentina might find itself on a similar upward trajectory as the Brazilian team is currently.

While the journey is not empty, it is clear that Argentina is heading towards a new era. Potentially, a resurgence can be witnessed post-2026, but for now, the 2022 WC dreams appear to be out of reach.