Argentina’s President Javier Milei has waded into one of the most passionate debates in the country’s football history—who is Argentina’s greatest footballer of all time?
In a recent appearance on the popular podcast Nuera, President Milei openly declared his admiration for Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi, stating that he had “never in [his] life seen anyone play like he does.” His comments are expected to reignite the long-standing rivalry of opinion between fans of Messi and the late Diego Maradona, both of whom are revered as footballing legends in Argentina and around the world.
“I am a crazy fan of Lionel Messi,” Milei said during the podcast interview. “He is a superlative player. When all the local media was attacking Messi, there were already videos of me defending him and calling him the best player of all time.”
The Argentine head of state’s bold endorsement comes at a time when Messi has cemented his legacy with both club and country, having recently added a second Copa America title to his already glittering resume. The 2024 victory followed his earlier continental triumph in 2021, as well as Argentina’s historic win at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022.
However, for much of his career, Messi faced intense scrutiny in his home country for not achieving the same level of success with the national team as he did with FC Barcelona. From heartbreaking losses in the 2014 FIFA World Cup final to back-to-back Copa America defeats to Chile in 2015 and 2016, Messi’s international record was a sore point for many Argentine fans and media commentators.
The criticism reached a boiling point in 2016 after Argentina’s third consecutive final loss in as many years. Messi, visibly distraught, announced his retirement from international football, a decision that shocked the football world. However, in a dramatic turn, he reversed that decision months later, vowing to continue representing La Albiceleste.
The tide began to turn in 2021, when Messi finally lifted a major international trophy with Argentina, winning the Copa America in Brazil. The triumph was followed by victory in the Finalissima against European champions Italy in 2022. But the crowning moment came later that year when Messi led Argentina to their third World Cup title in Qatar, a feat that many believe sealed his place in football immortality.
Now, with a second Copa America title added in 2024, Messi’s legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats appears unshakable. Yet, President Milei’s remarks could still stir controversy in a country where the memory of Diego Maradona looms large.
Maradona, who famously led Argentina to World Cup glory in 1986 and inspired generations with his flair, charisma, and larger-than-life personality, remains a cultural icon. For many, especially older generations, Maradona embodies the soul of Argentine football.
While President Milei did not directly compare Messi to Maradona in the interview, his emphatic praise for Messi may be interpreted as a subtle preference in the longstanding debate.
Reactions from the public have been mixed. Social media platforms in Argentina were abuzz following the release of the podcast episode, with hashtags like #MessiVsMaradona and #MileiOnMessi trending nationwide.
Some users praised Milei for expressing a sentiment they felt had long been deserved. “Finally, someone in power acknowledges what Messi has done for this country,” wrote one Twitter user. “He gave us joy when we needed it most.”
Others were less convinced. “No one will ever come close to what Maradona meant to us in 1986,” another user countered. “Messi is great, but Maradona was a god.”
Football analysts say the President’s comments reflect the generational shift in how greatness is defined in the sport. “For many younger fans, Messi is the hero they’ve grown up with,” said Buenos Aires-based sports journalist Pablo Ferrera. “He’s done everything there is to do in football, and now he has the silverware with Argentina to back it all up.”
Ferrera added that while comparisons between Maradona and Messi are inevitable, each player’s era and circumstances were vastly different. “Maradona played in a different time, under different pressures. Messi’s consistency, longevity, and clean record set him apart. But both are extraordinary in their own right.”
President Milei, known for his unconventional political style and outspoken nature, has never shied away from publicizing his personal views—even on issues that divide public opinion. While his remarks may have added fuel to the debate, they also reflect the deep emotional connection Argentines feel toward their footballing heroes.
As for Lionel Messi, the 36-year-old continues to shine in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami, and his influence off the pitch remains as strong as ever. Though his international career may be winding down, his recent successes with Argentina have ensured his place in history—not just in Argentina, but around the world.
With a record eight Ballon d’Or titles, four Champions League trophies, and now two Copa America titles and a World Cup, Messi’s career is arguably unparalleled.
Whether or not President Milei’s remarks shift public perception remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the legacy of Lionel Messi is no longer a question of potential—it is now a matter of record.
