Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, a rising star from London, recently shared reflections on his Argentine teammate Lionel Messi and opened up about what it feels like to share the field with a player of Messi’s caliber.
He described Messi as the kind of leader who radiates positivity both on the pitch and off it. In the locker room, Messi is approachable, down-to-earth, and considerate toward everyone. He supports every member of the squad, from the established stars to the youngest prospects, fostering a sense of unity and confidence that helps the team perform at its best.
Fernandez recalled the emotional journey of his time with Messi, saying he sensed unwavering backing during crucial moments in Qatar. Playing alongside Messi was a lifelong dream fulfilled, a moment he framed as receiving a profound gift. He wondered aloud whether Messi and divinity are truly separate, suggesting that for him, the line between inspiration and possibility feels wonderfully blurred.
The 2022 World Cup final, held on December 18, 2022, saw Argentina defeat France to claim the prestigious trophy. The national team’s triumph was celebrated worldwide, marking a historic achievement for the country and its players.
In the wake of the tournament, the three Argentines earned top honors within their roles. Fernandez was named the tournament’s best young player, Emiliano Martinez captured the best goalkeeper award, and Messi was recognized as the tournament’s outstanding player. Messi’s seven goals and three assists underscored his pivotal role in the success, cementing his status as one of the game’s greats.
There were prior reports that Real Madrid might consider moves tied to Best Prize considerations, reflecting the broader debate about Messi’s and Martinez’s contributions to football’s greatest stages. These discussions highlighted how individual awards intersect with team achievements and the ongoing narrative surrounding Argentina’s golden generation [CITATION: Official World Cup Records].