Argentina’s 2022 triumph still defines Messi’s career
It has been four years since Lionel Messi finally captured football’s most elusive prize, leading Argentina to a historic World Cup victory in 2022. The triumph saw him score seven goals, claim the Golden Ball, and complete a career arc that had long been debated in the sport. For many, it was the final missing piece in an already legendary résumé—and one that cemented Messi’s place in football history beyond doubt.
Key Highlights:
- Lionel Messi completed his career legacy in 2022, leading Argentina to World Cup glory with seven goals and winning the Golden Ball.
- Jose Mourinho praised Messi’s triumph as almost “destined”, suggesting a belief in “Football Gods” that completed his historic career.
- Mourinho reflected on iconic World Cup memories, including Brazil 1970, Maradona’s 1986 brilliance, and Brazil’s legendary Ronaldo–Rivaldo–Ronaldinho era.
- The Portuguese coach admitted he still wants international management, saying World Cup and Euros emotions make it an ambition he will pursue one day.
Mourinho on Messi and the “Football Gods” moment
Reflecting on that defining achievement, Jose Mourinho suggested there was something almost destined about Messi’s World Cup success. Speaking on the Beast Mode On Podcast with Adebayo Akinfenwa, he praised the idea that greatness on that level ultimately needed to be completed.
“The Messi World Cup [in 2022]… believe in Football Gods, because the guy couldn’t have the career he’s had without winning it,” Mourinho said. He added that there was a sense of something “superior” guiding the story toward its natural conclusion.
Mourinho’s World Cup memories: legends across eras
Mourinho also revisited some of his most vivid World Cup memories, spanning generations of football icons and unforgettable moments on the global stage.
He recalled watching Brazil’s 1970 World Cup triumph as a child, including Pele’s assist for Carlos Alberto’s iconic goal, describing it as a moment etched into his memory. He also spoke passionately about being a lifelong admirer of Diego Maradona, referencing the brilliance—and controversy—of the 1986 tournament, including the famous goals against Belgium and England.
The Portuguese coach also highlighted Brazil’s golden attacking era featuring Ronaldo Nazario, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho, describing them as players who defined an era of fearlessness and flair on the world stage.
International management still on Mourinho’s radar
Despite a career built almost entirely in elite club football with sides like Chelsea, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and Manchester United, Mourinho admitted that international management remains an unfulfilled ambition. He described club football as his “natural habitat,” valuing the daily intensity of training, competition, and player relationships.
However, he acknowledged the unique emotional pull of tournaments like the World Cup and European Championship, hinting that he would eventually like to experience that stage from the dugout. For now, his focus remains at club level—but the door to international football is clearly not closed.
