Argentina are already gearing up for their World Cup title defence, and Lionel Messi is helping Enzo Fernandez enjoy what the Chelsea midfielder has described as a “PlayStation” dream.
Fernandez has been speaking about life in the national team set-up, where he is sharing a dressing room with the same stars he used to control on a console. He admitted it still feels unreal to line up alongside Messi and other Argentina leaders as the champions look ahead to the next major tournament.
Messi, who captained Argentina to glory in Qatar, continues to be a key figure around the squad. Fernandez said the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner plays a major role in keeping the group calm and focused, while also making younger players feel comfortable as they settle into international football.
With Argentina now preparing for the challenge of defending their crown, Fernandez explained that the environment created by Messi and the senior players has made the transition easier. He added that being part of this team, with Messi at the centre of it, is something he once only experienced through a video game.
Argentina’s aim is clear: build on their World Cup success and keep the standards that delivered the trophy. For Fernandez, doing it alongside Messi is still hard to believe, even as it becomes his new normal.
