Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has said that Lionel Messi remains the most important player in Argentina’s squad, with teammates committed to helping the captain perform at his best during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The statement was made on Monday, June 22, 2026, during Argentina’s ongoing World Cup campaign, as Mac Allister discussed the team’s approach to supporting Messi and maximising his influence on the pitch. The midfielder explained that Argentina’s players, including key figures such as Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernández, understand their responsibility in creating the conditions for Messi to make decisive contributions.
Mac Allister said the team’s midfield structure is designed to provide defensive stability, recover possession, and allow Messi the freedom to focus on attacking moments.
The Liverpool player acknowledged that Messi’s role has evolved with age but insisted that his influence on the team remains unmatched.
He explained that while Messi may no longer cover the same amount of ground as he did earlier in his career, Argentina’s players are prepared to take on additional responsibilities to support him.
“If anyone thought this group was better off without Leo, today it became clear that Leo is the most important of them all,” Mac Allister said.
The midfielder added that the squad is comfortable doing the difficult work on the field while allowing Messi to conserve energy for moments when his creativity and experience can change matches.
Mac Allister’s comments came after Messi once again demonstrated his importance to Argentina by scoring a hat-trick in the team’s 3-0 victory over Algeria.
The performance moved Messi level with German legend Miroslav Klose on 16 goals as the joint highest-scoring player in FIFA World Cup history.
The achievement further highlighted Messi’s continued impact on the international stage despite being at the later stage of his career.
Messi, who will turn 39 on Wednesday, remains the central figure in Argentina’s attack under coach Lionel Scaloni.
The forward played a key role in Argentina’s World Cup triumph in 2022 and continues to lead the team’s ambitions at the 2026 tournament.
Mac Allister said the squad’s unity and willingness to support Messi are important parts of Argentina’s approach.
He noted that success at the highest level requires every player to understand their role and contribute to the team’s overall objective.
Argentina’s midfield has played a major role in balancing defensive duties with creating opportunities for Messi and other attacking players.
The team’s tactical setup allows Messi to operate in areas where he can influence games without needing to constantly carry the physical burden of earlier years.
The veteran forward has continued to prove that his decision-making, passing ability, and finishing remain among the strongest in world football.
His performances have also helped Argentina maintain their status as one of the leading contenders at the tournament.
Argentina will have another opportunity to strengthen their World Cup campaign when they face Austria in their second Group J fixture at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The match will provide Messi with another chance to move ahead of Klose’s World Cup scoring record.
For Mac Allister and his teammates, the focus remains on working collectively and ensuring Messi can continue making decisive contributions when the team needs him most.
The midfielder’s comments reflect the respect and trust Messi continues to command within the Argentina squad as the team seeks another historic World Cup run.
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