Zabaleta Highlights Messi's Mental Edge
Pablo Zabaleta, who played alongside Lionel Messi for Argentina for a decade, has pinpointed the quality that truly sets the 39-year-old superstar apart from every other footballer: his relentless competitive mindset.
Speaking to FIFA ahead of the 2026 World Cup final, the former right-back praised Messi's obvious technical brilliance but stressed that his mental fortitude is the defining factor behind his sustained success.
Messi's Unmatched Drive
“His mentality is extraordinary. He's won almost everything the game has to offer, yet he's never become complacent. If anything, every success seems to have driven him to achieve even more,” Zabaleta said.
“He's in a league of his own. His talent and technical ability are obvious to everyone, but what truly separates him from the rest is his competitive mindset.”
World Cup Final and Ballon d'Or Stakes
Messi has led Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final, following their 2022 triumph in Qatar. A victory on Sunday, July 19, 2026, would cement a legacy already considered beyond comparison in the modern era.
On the individual front, Messi won his eighth Ballon d'Or in 2023 after Argentina's Qatar success. A repeat performance in 2026 could see him claim a ninth, further extending his own record.
Messi's Message to Spain
Legit.ng previously reported that Messi sent a message to Spain ahead of the final, where Argentina will face a group of familiar Spanish players. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner remains focused on leading his team to glory once more.
