Anti-Lionel Messi Campaign Erupts in England After the World Cup
England's elimination at the hands of Argentina sparked a wave of criticism against Lionel Messi. British media, public opinion polls, and the Falkland Islands controversy fueled a debate that has gone beyond football and kept Argentina's captain at the center of attention.
England Turns Messi Into the Center of the Debate
Following Argentina's victory over England, several celebration photos drew attention after a banner referencing the Falkland Islands appeared, an issue that has long been politically sensitive between the two countries. The images sparked immediate reactions across the British media and social platforms, where criticism quickly mounted against members of the Argentine squad as well as Lionel Messi, even though the captain was not identified as being directly responsible for displaying the banner.
As the days passed, the focus shifted from the political controversy to the sporting and personal sphere. Several media outlets questioned the World Cup winner's image, while thousands of supporters expressed their frustration after England suffered another World Cup elimination at the hands of La Albiceleste.
According to YouGov, British public perception of Messi changed considerably throughout the tournament. What began as overwhelmingly positive support evolved into a much more divided opinion after England's exit.
Daily Mail Fuels the Controversy After the Final
The situation took on a new dimension following the World Cup Final, when Spain defeated Argentina. British newspaper Daily Mail published an article with an especially critical tone toward Lionel Messi, describing the defeat as a "humiliation" while questioning both his performance and the conduct of the Argentine team.
The report also referenced the incidents that occurred after the match, when several Argentine players became involved in on-field altercations. Although Messi was not directly involved in those confrontations, the publication argued that the captain also failed to emerge positively after appealing for disciplinary action against an opposing player during the match.
Polls Show a Shift, but the GOAT Debate Continues
One of the most striking developments was the evolution of Lionel Messi's public image in England. Figures published by YouGov revealed a significant drop in his approval rating as the tournament progressed, particularly after the Three Lions were eliminated.
Even so, among British football fans, Messi continues to be regarded as the leading candidate for the title of the greatest footballer of all time, comfortably outperforming Cristiano Ronaldo in the survey results.
The Impact of a Rivalry That Continues to Grow
The historic rivalry between Argentina and England has always carried an emotional dimension that extends far beyond football. Every meeting between the two nations revives sporting memories and political tensions that inevitably fuel public debate.
This time, England's semifinal defeat, the Falkland Islands controversy, and the coverage from sections of the British media combined to place Lionel Messi back under the spotlight.
While part of the British press continues to take a highly critical stance toward Argentina's captain, another segment of football fans believes some publications deliberately exaggerated the events in an effort to generate controversy and attract attention.
