Lionel Messi

Lamine Yamal reached 100 La Liga matches in record time, leaving Lionel Messi far behind. Lamine Yamal’s meteoric rise to global soccer stardom continues to gather momentum. This time, the Barcelona winger set another record by becoming the youngest player to reach 100 La Liga appearances, posting numbers that surpass those of Lionel Messi by a wide margin. Yamal was in the starting lineup on Saturday as Barcelona earned a 4-1 win over Espanyol in the Catalonia derby. He scored once and provided two assists for Ferran Torres, while also marking his 100th La Liga appearance at just 18 years and 272 days old. With that, the Spain star moved to the top of the all-time list for this milestone, surpassing Real Madrid legend Raul Gonzalez, who had held the record since 1997, when he reached 100 league appearances at 19 years and 284 days. Iker Muniain ranks third on the list, having reached that mark at 19 years and 293 days with Athletic Club. The Basque side also produced another name on the list, shared with Real Sociedad, Joseba Etxeberria, who achieved the milestone at 20 years and 177 days. Interestingly, another current Barcelona player also appears in the top 10: Gavi sits sixth on the list, having reached 100 La Liga matches at 20 years and 243 days. Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona How long did it take Messi to reach 100 La Liga matches? Although Lionel Messi had an early start to his professional career, breaking into Barcelona’s first team at 17 in 2004, he faced more challenges than Lamine Yamal when it came to establishing himself at the top level. The internal competition within that squad and his physical profile at the time are important factors when comparing the two players. Messi reached his first 100 La Liga appearances during the 2008-09 season. By then, he had already spent five seasons playing professionally with Barcelona. The milestone came in a 4-3 loss to Atletico Madrid on March 1, 2009. At that point, the Argentine forward was 21 years and 250 days old. Goal comparison between Yamal and Messi The difference in how quickly Messi and Yamal reached 100 La Liga matches is clear. However, when it comes to their goal contributions over that span, the gap becomes much narrower. At the time of his 100th La Liga appearance with Barcelona, Lionel Messi had recorded 48 goals and 29 assists, totaling 77 goal contributions. In the same number of matches, Lamine Yamal has posted 29 goals and 34 assists, for a total of 63 goal contributions.

Inter Miami are set to host New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer action, with all eyes on Lionel Messi. Inter Miami are looking for their first win this Saturday at Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park following last week’s grand opening. Their opponent in this MLS matchup will be New York Red Bulls, with Lionel Messi once again leading the team. The Herons currently sit tied for second place in the Eastern Conference standings with 11 points, level with New York City FC and Charlotte FC, after recording three wins, two draws, and one loss. At the top of the table are Nashville SC with 13 points. Their opponent, New York Red Bulls, have had a similar campaign so far: they trail Inter Miami by just one point in the standings and will be motivated by the chance to make a statement with a win at Nu Stadium. Confirmed Inter Miami lineup Compared to last week’s match, head coach Javier Mascherano will introduce a couple of changes to the starting lineup against New York Red Bulls, taking into account recent performances and minor fitness concerns. Most importantly, Lionel Messi will remain in the starting XI. Lionel Messi of Inter Miami talks with Javier Mascherano as he leaves the field. The confirmed Inter Miami lineup is: Dayne St. Clair; Ian Fray, Maximiliano Falcon, Micael, Sergio Reguilon; Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright; Mateo Silvetti, Lionel Messi, Telasco Segovia; German Berterame. Confirmed New York Red Bulls lineup After defeating FC Cincinnati last weekend in MLS play, New York Red Bulls enter this matchup against Inter Miami in good form. However, head coach Michael Bradley knows that Saturday’s challenge against Lionel Messi and company will be far more demanding. The confirmed New York Red Bulls lineup is: Ethan Horvath; Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, Dylan Nealis, Robert Voloder, Matthew Dos Santos; Adri Mehmeti, Emil Forsberg, Ronald Donkor; Cade Cowell, Julian Hall, Jorge Ruvalcaba.

Giovani Lo Celso, a key teammate of Lionel Messi with Argentina, is back from a lengthy injury just two months ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In recent weeks, the news has not been positive for Argentina, with several players sidelined by injuries in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, Giovani Lo Celso is the exception, returning after an extended spell on the sidelines with the goal of joining Lionel Messi in North America this summer. Lo Celso was included in the 24-man squad selected by head coach Manuel Pellegrini for Real Betis’ match on Sunday against Osasuna in Pamplona. The call-up marks the midfielder’s return following a prolonged absence due to a muscle injury. Gio’s last appearance came on January 22, when he played just six minutes in a UEFA Europa League clash against PAOK before suffering a significant tear in the rectus femoris of his right thigh that forced him to leave the match. If he sees minutes against Osasuna this Sunday, Lo Celso will end an 80-day stretch without official match action. In total, he missed 15 matches at club level across La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Europa League. Our squad list for #OsasunaRealBetis 📋#LALIGARETRO pic.twitter.com/Dbq4hMULvR — Real Betis Balompié (@RealBetis_en) April 11, 2026 Lo Celso aims to regain ground with Argentina The muscle injury sustained at Betis also kept Giovani Lo Celso out of Argentina’s plans at the start of the year. He was left off Lionel Scaloni’s roster for the friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia in Buenos Aires during the March FIFA break. With just two months until the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lo Celso’s situation remains uncertain. For years, he has been a key piece of the squad and Lionel Messi’s primary creative partner. However, recurring injuries over the past few seasons have caused him to lose ground, while other players have risen in the manager’s pecking order. At the moment, reports indicate that Scaloni is set on bringing several midfielders to the World Cup, including Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Exequiel Palacios, and Nicolas Paz. Lo Celso is not currently part of that group and will need to deliver strong performances — and, above all, maintain his fitness — in the coming months with Betis to compete for one of the final roster spots. Lo Celso has unfinished business at the World Cup Despite being a regular part of the Argentina setup for most of the past decade, Giovani Lo Celso has yet to play in a World Cup. He was included in the squad for Russia 2018, but then-head coach Jorge Sampaoli surprisingly did not give him a single minute across Argentina’s four matches. Four years later, Lo Celso was a clear starter in Lionel Scaloni’s plans heading into Qatar 2022, but an untimely muscle injury suffered weeks before the tournament while playing for Villarreal ruled him out of the squad. Now, he faces the challenge of earning a spot on Argentina’s roster for North America 2026 and finally settling that unfinished business.

Inter Miami have been slipping down the Eastern Conference table, so can they finally get going on Saturday night?

No Harry Kane, no problem. The English superstar was an unused substitute as Bayern Munich thrashed St Pauli 5-0 on Saturday. Jamal Musiala opened the scoring for the Bavarian giants in the ninth m…

Barcelona have reportedly made an offer to Robert Lewandowski, who is also being closely monitored by AC Milan and Chicago Fire. Robert Lewandowski’s future has been the subject of speculation for some time, with reported interest from AC Milan and Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer. In that context, Barcelona have reportedly submitted a formal offer. “Robert Lewandowski (37 years old) already knows FC Barcelona’s offer,” Mundo Deportivo reported this Saturday. “His agent, Pini Zahavi, was in the Catalan capital this week to meet with club representatives and learn the details of the proposal.” This update aligns with comments Joan Laporta made during his presidential campaign, when he stated his intention to keep the Polish striker for next season. However, that possibility is tied to the club’s financial limitations and the player’s advancing age. Lewandowski will turn 38 before the start of the 2026-27 campaign, and it is clear that his peak years are behind him. In fact, his role at Barcelona has gradually diminished, with more minutes increasingly going to Ferran Torres at the center forward position. Barcelona president Joan Laporta. Considering all these factors, reports indicate that Barcelona’s formal offer includes a significant salary reduction from his current deal, which is worth around $24 million per year. “The Pole’s priority was to remain at Barcelona, prioritizing the comfortable and happy life he has with his wife and two daughters in the Catalan capital, even if it means turning down more lucrative offers,” Mundo Deportivo added. Lewandowski’s other options The one-year renewal offer from Barcelona is not the only attractive option currently available to Lewandowski. In fact, earlier this week, La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that the striker expressed interest to AC Milan in a potential move this summer as a free agent. Other alternatives include destinations outside Europe, following in the footsteps of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. On one hand, Chicago Fire have been linked for months with a potential marquee signing in MLS, while reports from the Saudi Pro League indicate that several clubs are interested in the striker—likely involving significantly higher salary offers than elsewhere. Lewandowski’s numbers this season Even at 37 and past his prime, Lewandowski is still producing numbers this season that justify the interest from multiple clubs. Across La Liga, Copa del Rey, Spanish Super Cup, and UEFA Champions League, he has recorded 17 goals in 39 appearances, along with 3 assists. That amounts to an average of more than 0.50 goal contributions per game.

Everything you need to know about the penalty kick ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Messi hasn't pleaded to return to Barca, but he has said he would like to come back at some point in is life - but no one knows when. Leer

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami will visit Colorado Rapids in Major League Soccer next week, and a record-breaking crowd is expected. Next week, Colorado Rapids will play a historic match against Inter Miami as part of their 30th anniversary celebration in Major League Soccer. That occasion, combined with Lionel Messi’s presence, has helped the club reach a new ticket sales record. “The race to history is on,” the club announced Friday in a post on its official X account. “We’ve surpassed 60,000 tickets for our 30th Anniversary Match!” This highlights the massive anticipation surrounding the matchup scheduled for Saturday, April 18. This will be just the second time Colorado Rapids face Lionel Messi since his arrival in MLS in the summer of 2023. The only previous meeting was a 2-2 draw at Chase Stadium during the 2024 season, meaning Messi has yet to play an away match against Colorado with the Herons. The arrival of the Argentine superstar is one of the main reasons this match is so special. Another is that the club has chosen this date to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its first MLS season, as Colorado Rapids were one of the league’s 10 founding teams in 1996. The race to history is on 💪 We’ve surpassed 60,000 tickets for our 30th Anniversary Match! pic.twitter.com/fDV7jqf71r — Colorado Rapids (@ColoradoRapids) April 10, 2026 Venue change for Colorado Rapids vs Inter Miami Aware of the significance of the match against Inter Miami, Colorado Rapids anticipated an unusually high attendance and decided to change the venue. The MLS Matchday 8 game will not be played at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, as is usually the case, but at Empower Field at Mile High. The selected stadium is home to the Denver Broncos of the National Football League (NFL) and has a significantly larger capacity. While Colorado Rapids typically host crowds of around 18,000 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, Empower Field at Mile High can accommodate up to 76,000 spectators. Colorado Rapids set ticket sales record Until now, the highest-attended match in Colorado Rapids history took place on July 4, 2002, against Chicago Fire in MLS. On that occasion, the club also played at Empower Field at Mile High, with approximately 59,500 fans in attendance. That mark has now been surpassed, with more than 60,000 tickets already sold and over a week remaining before kickoff. That figure is expected to continue rising, potentially bringing the stadium close to full capacity.

Christian Pulisic finds himself watching an unexpected development unfold at Milan, as Robert Lewandowski’s future becomes one of the most intriguing storylines of the coming transfer window. Christian Pulisic finds himself watching an unexpected development unfold at Milan, as Robert Lewandowski’s future becomes one of the most intriguing storylines of the coming transfer window. The situation has drawn attention across Europe, with Lewandowski’s future at Barcelona uncertain and several clubs positioning themselves for a potential move. For Milan, the prospect of adding a proven goalscorer could significantly elevate its ambitions, while Pulisic’s presence in the squad adds another layer of intrigue to the potential deal. The club is carefully monitoring developments, aware that this opportunity could reshape its attacking structure. Lewandowski’s current situation at Barcelona remains unclear, with his contract nearing its expiration and no definitive renewal agreed upon. Despite his continued productivity, the club appears to be considering a reduced role for the veteran striker moving forward. The Polish forward himself has admitted uncertainty about his next step. “I don’t know; I have to feel it. At the moment, I can’t tell you anything, because I’m not even 50 per cent sure which path I want to take. It’s not the right time yet,” he said earlier in the season. Barcelona will eventually need to replace Robert Lewandowski. This indecision has opened the door for multiple clubs to express interest, including sides in Italy, Lionel Messi‘s MLS, and Cristiano Ronaldo‘s Saudi Pro League. As a result, the Pole has become one of the most sought-after experienced forwards on the market. Growing interest from Milan and other clubs According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan has emerged as one of the strongest contenders for Lewandowski’s signature, viewing him as a solution to its attacking needs. The Serie A giant sees value in his experience and consistent goal-scoring, especially as it aims to return to the top tier of European competition. Other clubs are also in the race, including Juventus, Chicago Fire, and teams from Saudi Arabia. However, Milan’s project and the possibility of continuing at a high level in Europe appear to be key factors in the ongoing discussions. The idea of signing Lewandowski on a free transfer adds further appeal, making it a potentially low-risk move with high reward. For a club looking to maximize efficiency in the market, this opportunity stands out. Lewandowski’s stance revealed As the situation develops, Lewandowski’s position has become clearer. La Gazzetta dello Sport adds that he has taken a proactive approach by offering himself to Milan and signaling openness to negotiate a move, a step that has significantly boosted the Italian club’s chances. For several months, Ferran Torres has been Hansi Flick’s first choice, and according to Cadena SER, the veteran is dissatisfied with his level of participation. What’s more, the fact that the Catalan side hasn’t said anything about the 37-year-old’s future until lately has not impressed his camp. Cadena SER adds that Lewandowski no longer views Barca as his top option after it was reported in Italy that he offered his services to Milan and held discussions with the Rossoneri. Juventus, Chicago Fire, and Saudi Arabia have all shown interest in him. However, it appears that the Rossoneri are prepared to give him a two-year contract and a larger role. He plans to decide either by the end of April or, at the latest, in May. Rashford and Lewandowski formed a great pairing in Barcelona What Lewandowski would bring to Milan Even at 37, Lewandowski continues to deliver impressive numbers, with 17 goals and three assists in 39 appearances this season. His consistency in front of the goal remains one of his strongest assets, making him a valuable addition to any attacking line. For Milan, his arrival could mirror the impact of other experienced signings, providing leadership and a clinical edge in crucial moments. His track record across Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona highlights a career built on elite-level performance. Additionally, his presence could complement players like Pulisic, offering a reliable focal point in attack. This combination could help Milan improve its offensive output and compete more effectively in both domestic and European competitions.

LIONEL MESSI'S former Porsche from his time at Barcelona is set to go under the hammer at an auction. Messi, 38, drove a 2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe in his final season at Barca during the 2020-21 campaign. According to creatorzine.com, the luxury car, which is registered in the eight-time ballon d'Or winner's beloved city...

Inter Miami take on New York RB in a 2026 MLS regular season clash. Check here for full game details, including date, location, and broadcast information to watch it live in the USA. Here are all of the details of where you can watch Inter Miami vs New York RB on US television and via legal streaming: WHO Inter Miami vs New York RB WHAT MLS 2026 season WHEN 7:30pm ET / 4:30am PT • Saturday, April 11, 2026 WHERE Apple TV STREAM WATCH NOW Match Overview With both clubs separated by just a single point in the standings, this matchup carries early-season weight as the New York Red Bulls look to build on their 10-point start and climb from seventh place, while Inter Miami aim to steady themselves after a frustrating result last time out. Despite being held by Austin FC, Miami remain firmly in the hunt, sitting fourth with 11 points—only two shy of leaders Nashville SC—with Lionel Messi heading a squad capable of shifting momentum quickly; with both sides eyeing a statement win to tighten the race at the top, this showdown shapes up as a must-watch. Details on how to watch Apple TV is the home for Major League Soccer – where you can watch Inter Miami vs New York RB and every MLS game. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, Apple TV, smartphone, tablet, Roku, and other smart streaming devices. Apple TV will stream every MLS game – including MLS Cup Playoffs and Leagues Cup – with no blackouts. Apple TV is available via the Apple TV app on all Apple iOS devices, Mac, PC, Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick, Android TV, Google TV, LG smart TVs, Panasonic smart TVs, Playstation 4 & 5, Roku streaming devices and smart TVs, Samsung smart TVs, Sony smart TVs, Vizio smart TVs, and Xbox One, One S, Series X and Series S. In addition, you can AirPlay or cast from your phone or computer to any compatible screen. SEE MORE: Schedule of MLS games on US TV and streaming How to watch anywhere with VPN If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.

After being a serious target of the MLS, Kevin De Bruyne has yet to decide his future once his deal expires at Napoli. Kevin De Bruyne was one of MLS‘s primary targets during the final months of his time at Manchester City, though it was ultimately Napoli who landed his signature back in 2024. Now, the Belgian legend has admitted he has yet to make a decision on his future beyond the Italian club, leaving the door open for MLS to make another run at one of the game’s finest midfielders. After his contract expired at Manchester City in June 2024, De Bruyne chose to remain in Europe rather than make the move to North America, signing with Napoli. In his first season, he became a central figure in Antonio Conte’s system, helping the club claim their fourth Scudetto in the 2024-25 season, but his longer-term future has been left unanswered. In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, De Bruyne was asked whether Napoli would be his final club. “I don’t know that yet; I’m not thinking about it right now. I’m not that type of person. I still have a contract, and I’m truly happy in Naples. I’m trying to enjoy the moment now. I believe I can still play for a few more years, then when my body tells me to stop, I will. But for now, I feel good,” he said. De Bruyne, currently 34, turns 35 in June and is under contract through the end of the 2026-27 season, by which point he will be 36. With more than a year remaining on his deal and a firmly established role at Napoli, a departure ahead of next season seems unlikely at this stage. Kevin De Bruyne #7 of Belgium. When asked about the prospect of retirement, De Bruyne left open the possibility of one more chapter in his playing career. “When will I stop? I really don’t know. Certainly, there will be nothing at first, because I’ll want to enjoy my family, who have made so many sacrifices for me. Then I’ll have to find something to do, obviously. In the near future, however, I just want to continue playing football, giving my best to stay at the highest level possible. I feel good, I’m happy, and my family is happy for me,” he said. Could De Bruyne end up in MLS? As his contract with Manchester City wound down, De Bruyne was linked with a potential move to Inter Miami to team up with Lionel Messi, or alternatively as a Designated Player for the then-new expansion franchise San Diego FC. BBC Sport later reported that Chicago Fire had emerged as the frontrunners, holding the discovery rights for the Belgian midfielder. Although De Bruyne ultimately chose Napoli, Chicago are expected to still hold those discovery rights, and with Hugo Cuypers and Jonathan Bamba currently occupying two of the club’s three DP slots, there is room for a marquee addition. By the time his Napoli contract expires, De Bruyne will be 36, putting him in a similar position to Thomas Muller when he joined the Vancouver Whitecaps, and potentially making him the latest global name to make his mark in MLS.

Focused on Manchester United and in the 2026 World Cup, Harry Maguire has reportedly rejected a move to Lionel Messi's Inter Miami. Harry Maguire has rediscovered his best form in recent months, catching the attention of Inter Miami as his contract at Manchester United approached its expiration in June 2026. While the prospect of playing alongside Lionel Messi was reportedly on the table, the English defender has chosen to remain at Old Trafford, with his focus firmly on both the club and the 2026 World Cup. According to Transfermarkt and The Sun, Inter Miami were among the clubs interested in signing Maguire on a free transfer, along with Napoli. With the Herons dealing with a defensive crisis and still holding an available international roster spot, bringing in the England center back was seen as a viable solution to shore up the backline. However, Maguire reportedly turned down Inter Miami’s approach and has instead agreed to a one-year contract extension with Manchester United. That option had always been available for the club to exercise, and following Maguire’s resurgent run of form, United wasted no time in making the announcement official, with still two months remaining in the current season. As for Maguire, the defender expressed genuine enthusiasm about staying. “You can feel the ambition and potential of this exciting squad. The determination throughout the whole club to fight for major trophies is clear for everyone to see, and I am confident that our best moments together remain ahead of us,” he said in a statement on Manchester United’s official website. Harry Maguire of England. Maguire and a return to his highest level After a turbulent stretch at Manchester United that saw multiple managers dismissed, the captaincy stripped from him and a near-move to West Ham in 2023, the tide has turned dramatically for Maguire. Back as a regular starter, he has been a key figure in United’s push to third place in the Premier League, a finish that would return the club to the Champions League for the first time since the 2023-24 season. On the international front, Maguire has also worked his way back into England’s plans since September 2024. He featured in both the Uruguay and Japan friendlies during the March international break, and in an interview with The Athletic made clear just how motivated he is to be part of the World Cup squad. “Whatever role the manager would want me for, whether that’s starting or deciding games late on, I still believe, even at my age, I’m arguably one of the best defenders in the world in both boxes. I don’t think that’s open to question, really,” Maguire said, with Thomas Tuchel set to submit England’s final World Cup squad list in May.

Argentina will play its final tune-ups for the World Cup at the college football stadiums of Texas A&M and Auburn.

Claudio Gugnali, former assistant coach of Argentina, spoke with Lionel Messi and expressed confidence that he will play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The uncertainty surrounding Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is getting closer to being resolved. All signs appear to point toward a positive outcome—something also sensed by former Argentina assistant Claudio Gugnali. “For me, Messi will be at the World Cup, there’s no doubt. I felt it, and I saw him in great shape on the field,” Gugnali said in a recent interview with Radio Gol, following the friendlies Argentina played against Mauritania and Zambia in Buenos Aires during the March FIFA break. Gugnali served as assistant to head coach Alejandro Sabella between 2011 and 2014, when the national team reached the World Cup final in Brazil, where they lost 1-0 to Germany. Those years allowed him to build a close relationship with Messi, who was, of course, a key part of that squad. With the forward’s visit to Buenos Aires during the international break, Gugnali had the opportunity to meet with him at the Argentine Football Association training facility and have a private conversation. “We talked about family and his time in Miami; he told me he’s very happy, not like in Paris, where he suffered,” Claudio revealed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Claudio Gugnali (@claudiogugnali) Finally, Gugnali made it clear that he has no doubts about Lionel Messi’s commitment to the Argentina national team and how much every international tournament means to him. “I saw him cry in Brazil and in Qatar; he truly cries for the national team,” the coach said, referring to the Copa America 2021 and World Cup 2022 titles. What will determine whether Messi plays in the 2026 World Cup? During the celebrations after winning the title in Qatar, Lionel Messi said that it had been his last World Cup, adding that he wanted to “keep playing a little longer with Argentina as world champion.” That timeline, however, has gradually extended to include the entire South American qualifiers for 2026, as well as Copa America 2024. With the tournament in North America approaching, the forward has yet to make an official decision about his participation, as he nears his 39th birthday and remains uncertain whether his physical condition will meet the demands of the most intense competition in soccer. “I’ll take it day by day, being honest and trying to be realistic and feel good,” he said in late 2025 in an interview with ESPN. Messi has also expressed optimism that the MLS calendar could work in his favor: “Having a preseason in the middle, I think that changes everything for me… European players arrive at the end with so many matches on their legs. For us, it comes at a different point in the season.” When does Messi have to make a decision? Lionel Messi’s uncertainty cannot last much longer, as FIFA imposes strict deadlines for each national team to finalize its squad. In just over a month, on May 11, coaches of the 48 participating countries must submit a preliminary list of up to 55 players. The final deadline is May 30, when that list must be cut down to the official 26-man roster.

Argentina and perhaps Lionel Messi in SEC country. The Three Lions in Florida in the middle of the afternoon. The post Datebook: World Cup 2026 tune-ups appeared first on Soccer America.

Lionel Messi eyes a historic milestone as Argentina prepares for the 2026 World Cup in packed U.S. stadiums. Leer

Following their success at Qatar 2022, Argentina is finalizing preparations ahead of the next edition of soccer's biggest tournament. Leer

After scoring against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League, Julian Alvarez spoke about the influence of Lionel Messi. Julian Alvarez scored a stunning free kick goal for Atletico Madrid against Barcelona this Wednesday, opening the scoring for his side in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Afterward, the Argentine forward credited Lionel Messi as his inspiration. “When I’m with the national team, I always take time to watch how he does it, and then I try to replicate his technique in training sessions and matches here at Atletico,” Alvarez said in the postgame press conference following the 2-0 win, according to Infobae. That goal broke the deadlock at Camp Nou, allowing Atletico Madrid to take the lead late in the first half and play with greater composure after the break. Eventually, Alexander Sorloth doubled the advantage, setting up a more favorable second leg next week. Reflecting on his free kick, Julian added: “Many times, when you strike the ball, you can tell right away it’s a good hit. I felt that, and even before taking it, I was very focused and confident. Yesterday I practiced and took five or six, but didn’t score any — what mattered was today.” Absolute brilliance from Julián Álvarez 😮‍💨🔥 pic.twitter.com/SeyR3AjDrg — CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 8, 2026 The comparison between Alvarez’s goal and a memorable Messi strike Moments after Julian Alvarez scored for Atletico Madrid, social media was flooded with fans comparing his free kick to one of Lionel Messi’s iconic goals for Barcelona against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League 2018-19 semifinals. There is one obvious difference between the two goals, related to each player’s stronger foot: while Messi scored with his left, Alvarez did so with his right. However, the similarities in the location of the foul, the ball’s trajectory, and the fact that both were struck into the same goal at Camp Nou are striking. 🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Lionel Messi's free kick against Liverpool has been voted as the greatest Free kick in Football history. 🤯🐐pic.twitter.com/TkSeveodD3 — MessiXtra (@MessiXtraHQ) April 8, 2026 “I’ve watched that goal many times — they show it often,” Julian Alvarez admitted in the same interview when asked about the resemblance to Messi’s free kick. However, he noted he hadn’t realized it was scored into the same goal: “I wasn’t aware it had been there.” The teams on the receiving end of Alvarez’s free kicks Against Barcelona, Julian Alvarez scored the seventh free kick goal of his career. This season, he had already netted two others, one of which came in a key match — a 5-2 victory over Real Madrid in the Spanish capital derby, played at the Metropolitano Stadium in La Liga. With Atletico Madrid, Alvarez have scored free kick goals against Espanyol, Real Betis and Sparta Prague, while his earlier ones came with Manchester City, against Wolverhampton and Red Star Belgrade. With Argentina, Julian has yet to score from a free kick — a logical outcome considering Lionel Messi is typically the team’s primary taker.