Alexis Mac Allister: 'It's very difficult to learn from Messi, there won't be another'

Liverpool and Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has opened up about the experience of playing alongside Lionel Messi following Argentina's clinical 3-0 victory over Algeria in their 2026 World Cup opener. The match saw Messi deliver a masterclass, scoring a hat-trick to equal the record for most wins in World Cup history with 17.

I enjoy being with Leo a lot, there won't be another one like him. It's very different to see it next to him, the things he does are not normal. From my side, I simply take advantage of it, he is very important for us to win, and from another side, the admiration. It's very difficult to learn from what he does, because you have it in your head but you can never do it that way. Alexis Mac Allister

Mac Allister noted that while teammates can observe Messi's brilliance, his natural ability is inherently unique. Beyond the technical magic, the midfielder emphasized that he draws inspiration primarily from Messi's humility and values as a leader.

During the match, Mac Allister showcased his own tactical intelligence, including a clever dummy run that helped facilitate the team's opening goal. Argentina, aiming to become the first nation since 1962 to successfully defend a World Cup title, demonstrated both statistical dominance and team cohesion throughout the fixture.

The squad is now shifting its focus toward their second group-stage challenge against Austria in Dallas. Mac Allister warned that the world champions must remain focused as they prepare for a different physical challenge against the European side on June 22.