Lionel Messi shares candid thoughts ahead of World Cup
Lionel Messi has admitted he is “weirder than s**t” in a candid interview with Luzu TV this week, offering fans a glimpse into his life away from football, reports BritPanorama.
The 38-year-old superstar, revered as one of the greatest footballers in history, discussed his unconventional beverage preference—wine mixed with Sprite—as a way to unwind, especially in the humid Miami weather.
“I like wine, but if not, I have my usual: wine with Sprite. So it hits fast, haha!” the Inter Miami forward revealed. This blend, Messi noted, is particularly refreshing after matches as he seeks to decompress from the high-pressure environment of professional football.
Messi further opened up about his need for personal space amid family life with his wife Antonella and their three sons, stating, “I’m weirder than s**t, I really like being alone. The mess at home with the three kids running around everywhere ends up saturating me.” He characterised himself as highly regimented, asserting that unexpected disruptions to his routine can unsettle him.
As Messi prepares for what will likely be his final World Cup appearance this summer—scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico—he expressed a blend of hope and realism regarding his participation. “I hope I can be there. I’ve said before that I’d love to be there,” he noted. At the very least, he anticipates enjoying the matches as a spectator if necessary.
Argentina enters the tournament as defending champions, having triumphed in Qatar 2022, where Messi scored twice in a dramatic final against Spain. Reflecting on his team, Messi praised the collective spirit instilled by manager Lionel Scaloni. “The truth is we have extraordinary players,” he remarked, emphasizing the desire and excitement that has permeated the squad since Scaloni’s leadership began.
He described his teammates as a “squad full of winners,” highlighting their competitive drive and commitment evident during training and matches. Messi also stressed the importance of capitalising on their recent World Cup victory, explaining that it instills confidence and a sense of relief that should aid their preparations going forward.
Argentina’s group stage fixtures will see them face Algeria, Austria, and Jordan, commencing on 17 June. Winning the last World Cup against France—decided by penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw—sets the stage for high expectations as they aim to defend their title.
In a sport where legends are made and rivalries run deep, Messi’s candid admissions remind us that even among the elite, the quest for balance between personal life and sporting ambition remains a profound struggle. As the world turns its gaze to the upcoming tournament, his reflections resonate more than ever, echoing the common human desire for space and peace amidst chaos.
