Former England defender Kyle Walker has warned the Three Lions against attempting to provoke Lionel Messi during their FIFA World Cup semifinal against Argentina, arguing that such a strategy would likely backfire. The Burnley defender, who faced Messi multiple times during his Manchester City career, shared his insights ahead of the high-stakes match.
Walker's Advice: Don't Provoke Messi
Speaking to The Sun, Walker urged England's players to avoid any psychological or physical tactics aimed at unsettling the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. "My candid advice would be to avoid provoking him," Walker said. "I am open to man-marking, but I doubt its effectiveness for us, and he might view it as a personal challenge to prove that he cannot be contained in that manner."
Walker emphasized that Messi thrives under pressure, a trait he has demonstrated throughout his career. The 36-year-old noted that the semifinal represents England's toughest tactical test yet in the tournament. "It's difficult to pinpoint any weaknesses in Messi's game. Perhaps the fact that he doesn't engage in much defensive tracking could be one," he added.
Messi's Team Support Key
Walker highlighted that Messi's greatest strength lies in the support he receives from his teammates. "However, he is supported by a strong team that enables him to focus on his strengths. The players around him understand his capabilities and work hard to facilitate his play," Walker said. He expressed confidence that Messi would be highly motivated against England, aiming to defend the World Cup trophy.
England and Argentina have not met in a World Cup since 1998, and Messi has never faced the Three Lions at international level. The match, scheduled for July 2026, will be a crucial test for both sides as they vie for a place in the final.
Messi's Message to England
Earlier, Lionel Messi sent a message to England ahead of the semifinal, expressing his determination to lead Argentina to victory. The 2022 World Cup winner has been in outstanding form throughout the tournament, scoring key goals in the knockout stages.
Kyle Walker's warning comes as England prepare for what many consider their biggest match since the 1966 World Cup final. The Three Lions have impressed in the tournament, but stopping Messi will be their greatest challenge yet.
