Lionel Messi: 'One less' in 2026? Hugo Gatti's explosive claim

Hugo Gatti, the former Argentinian goalkeeper known for his outspoken and often controversial opinions, has caused a stir in the football world. In a recent interview, Gatti stated that Lionel Messi, while he might make it to the 2026 World Cup, will be "one less" and that he already is. His arguments centre on the supposedly low level of the US league, Messi's perceived lack of challenge in not playing in other leagues, and a comparison with Cristiano Ronaldo. Below, we'll analyse these claims in detail and explore how accurate they might be.

"Country Football" in the United States: A Valid Argument?

Gatti dismisses Major League Soccer (MLS) as "country football," suggesting the level of competition is too low to keep Messi fit for a World Cup. While it's true that MLS doesn't compare to Europe's elite leagues in terms of history and tradition, it has experienced significant growth in recent years. The arrival of figures like Messi, as well as other international stars and young talents, has raised the level of play and interest in the league.

It's undeniable that the pace and intensity of MLS may differ from leagues like the Premier League, La Liga, or Serie A. However, this doesn't mean it's low-quality football. MLS is a physical and competitive league, with well-organised teams and talented players. Furthermore, the MLS schedule, with its extensive travel and frequent matches, also presents a physical challenge for the players.

Beyond the league's level, it's important to consider Messi's individual context. At 36, after a long and demanding career, MLS could represent an ideal option to prolong his professional trajectory. In a less demanding environment, Messi can pace himself, avoid injuries, and stay fit for important commitments like the Argentinian national team.

Lack of Challenge: Has Messi Become Complacent?

Another central point of Gatti's criticism is that Messi hasn't pushed himself enough by not playing in leagues other than Barcelona and the Argentinian national team. According to Gatti, Messi had opportunities to test himself in other teams and countries but preferred to stay in his comfort zone.

This statement ignores several important aspects. Firstly, Messi spent most of his career at Barcelona, one of the biggest and most demanding clubs in the world. There, he faced fierce competition and won every possible title. Moreover, Messi has always shown unwavering commitment to the Argentinian national team, representing his country in numerous international competitions.

While it’s true Messi hasn't played in many different leagues, this doesn't mean he hasn't challenged himself. Throughout his career, Messi has demonstrated insatiable ambition and constant dedication to improving his game. His recent move to Paris Saint-Germain, while not entirely successful in collective terms, also represented a new challenge in his career.

The Comparison with Cristiano Ronaldo: A Fair Comparison?

Gatti also compares Messi with Cristiano Ronaldo, arguing that the Portuguese player is in better physical shape and that playing in Saudi Arabia is more difficult than playing in the United States. While both players are football legends and have had extraordinary careers, constantly comparing them is redundant.

Cristiano Ronaldo, at 38, continues to show a high level of physical fitness and goal-scoring ability in the Saudi league. However, this doesn't necessarily mean he's in better condition than Messi. Each player has a different context and a different way of approaching the end of their career.

Furthermore, comparing the difficulty of playing in the Saudi league with MLS is subjective. Both leagues present different challenges. The Saudi league may be more physical and have a more direct style of play, while MLS is characterised by greater tactical organisation and a more elaborate game.

Will Messi Be "One Less" at the 2026 World Cup?

The key question is whether Gatti's criticisms are justified and whether Messi will truly be "one less" at the 2026 World Cup. The answer is complex and depends on several factors.

It's true that Messi will arrive at the next World Cup at 39, an advanced age for a footballer. However, Messi has proven time and again that he is an exceptional player, capable of exceeding expectations and defying the passage of time.

His physical condition and motivation will be crucial. If Messi stays fit and continues to enjoy football, there's no reason to doubt his ability to perform at the highest level at the World Cup. Furthermore, the team's context and the Argentinian national team's system of play will also play an important role.

In conclusion, Hugo Gatti's statements about Messi generate an interesting debate about the Argentinian star's present and future. While some of his criticisms may have some validity, others seem exaggerated and simplistic. Only time will tell if Messi will be "one less" at the 2026 World Cup, but what is certain is that his presence on the pitch will always be a differentiating factor.