Fabio Capello has hailed Lautaro Martinez as Lionel Messi’s “ideal sidekick” at the 2026 World Cup, praising the Inter captain for accepting a supporting role that differs sharply from his usual status in Italy.
Writing in La Gazzetta dello Sport, the former England manager described Martinez as operating like “more of a Robin than a Batman” when playing alongside Messi for Argentina. Capello noted that the striker “sacrifices a lot for Leo,” running and pressing to complement the 39-year-old captain rather than dominating as he does for his club side.
Messi’s group stage brilliance
The adaptation appears to be paying dividends. Messi has been the tournament’s standout performer so far, netting six goals during the group stage—a tally that would have secured the Golden Boot at ten of the last twelve World Cups. Capello called him “the genius who walks,” noting that while the Argentine “doesn’t run much, he’s always there at the right time.”
Capello detected renewed motivation in the veteran forward, observing that Messi is demonstrating “a lot of pride” and does not wish to finish his international career with “just” the 2022 World Cup triumph.
France’s formidable attack
Despite Messi’s extraordinary form, Capello believes the tournament is France’s to lose. He described Les Bleus’ attacking department as “in a different category,” comparing Kylian Mbappé and his teammates to “Pelé’s Brazil.” France’s wealth of options includes Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olisé and Désiré Doué among the starters, with Marcus Thuram, Bradley Barcola, Rayan Cherki and Jean-Philippe Mateta restricted to substitute roles.
A potential rematch of the 2022 final between Argentina and France remains possible after the draw placed the reigning champions and 2018 winners on opposite sides of the knockout bracket.
Martinez over Alvarez
Capello suggested that Martinez’s willingness to adapt explains why manager Lionel Scaloni prefers him to Julián Álvarez, despite the latter attracting interest from major European clubs. “Lautaro is also a top player, otherwise Scaloni wouldn’t prefer him,” Capello stated, highlighting the Inter man’s work rate as key to the partnership.
The comments underline the tactical balance Argentina have struck as they attempt to defend their title, with Martinez providing the industry that allows Messi to conserve energy for decisive moments in North America.