Messi Addresses the Canelo Álvarez Controversy From the 2022 World Cup
One image, thousands of reactions, and a controversy that crossed borders. Now, Messi sets the record straight.
The tension between Lionel Messi and Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez dates back to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, when a locker-room video triggered a global debate. In the footage, the Argentina national team captain was celebrating after defeating Mexico, while a Mexican jersey appeared on the floor nearby.
The Mexican boxing champion interpreted the scene as a sign of disrespect toward his country’s shirt. He took to X to post a series of messages expressing his frustration, igniting a heated exchange online between fans from both nations.
Messi’s Side of the Story
Speaking on the Miro de Atrás podcast, hosted by Nahuel Guzmán, Messi addressed the situation calmly and directly. The Argentine star insisted the entire episode was a misunderstanding rooted in normal locker-room behavior.
He explained that jerseys often end up on the floor after matches because they are soaked in sweat — something completely routine in football. Messi also clarified that the shirt in question belonged to Andrés Guardado, with whom he had exchanged jerseys after the game.
“It Became Something Much Bigger”
Messi emphasized that the situation was blown out of proportion. He noted that anyone familiar with football culture understands that such scenes are common in post-match environments.
For the World Cup winner, the controversy grew far beyond reality, fueled by social media amplification and the intense rivalry between Mexico and Argentina.
A Rivalry With History
The conversation also touched on the broader sporting tension between the two nations. In several recent World Cup editions, Argentina has eliminated Mexico, ending the Mexican team’s hopes of reaching the long-awaited “fifth match.”
In the end, Messi made it clear there was never any intention to disrespect Mexico. What started as a brief locker-room clip became one of the most talked-about moments of Qatar 2022.
