"LeBron James today is a better athlete" - Journalist slams Lionel Messi after Argentina's loss to Paraguay, makes comparison to NBA superstar

Journalist Alvaro Morales recently compared Argentina legend Lionel Messi to basketball legend LeBron James in scathing comments. It comes after Argentina fell to a 2-1 defeat away to Paraguay in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Thursday, November 14. The reigning World Cup holders fell to their third defeat in 11 qualifying games to see their lead over Colombia shrink to three points.

Messi failed to affect the game for his national team and saw the hosts cancel and outdo Lautaro Martinez's 11th-minute strike. Antonio Sanabria equalized for Paraguay in the 19th minute before Omar Alderete scored the winner in the 47th minute.

Following the final whistle, the journalist blasted Lionel Messi after his loss with Argentina, saying via El Futbolero Argentina:

“LeBron James today is a better athlete, is more important to his team, and is more important to his league than Lionel Messi to Inter Miami and MLS. LeBron James has three consecutive double-double games, becoming the oldest player to do so, breaking his own record, and comes from scoring a triple-double.”

“Messi comes from failing in the MLS Playoffs, which obviously does not belong to an elite league, as LeBron James does play in it, in the most important basketball league. He is two years older LeBron James, he defends, he goes for the rebounds, he attends, he runs, he is also administered, of course, but not like Messi who manages the whole game walking.”

He concluded his comparison between Lionel Messi and LeBron James, saying:

“In the face of criticism and adverse moments, LeBron never bends down. It evolves, it is getting better, it is getting more and more alpha, while Messi sinks in those same moments. At Messi's age, Cristiano was breaking it in Italy. LeBron, two years older than Messi, continues to break it in the NBA. While soccer increasingly breaks Messi. I said ”

Some consider Lionel Messi to be the greatest player in Argentina's history, and he has led his nation to a World Cup win and consecutive Copa America trophies. He will be eager to prove his quality when he and his compatriots face Peru in their next match on November 19.

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“Seeing Messi, the GOAT of soccer, honor the MLS with his presence is a total game-changer for us"- LeBron James about Argentina legend Lionel Messi joining Inter Miami

During an interview in February this year, NBA legend LeBron James hailed Argentina legend Lionel Messi's arrival to the MLS as a 'game-changer.' The Argentine superstar joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023, drawing large crowds and public interest in the sport.

Messi is considered one of the greatest players of all time, having won almost every trophy available. He has eight Ballon d'Or wins and over 800 professional career goals for club and country. He joined the Miami-based club on a free transfer after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired and has helped the side to their first two pieces of silverware.

The NBA legend said in a conversation with ESPN's Dave McMenamin:

“Seeing Messi, the GOAT of soccer, honour the MLS with his presence is a total game-changer for us. His arrival not only elevates the league but also inspires a new generation of football fans in our country. It takes unparalleled dedication, work ethic and talent to achieve what Messi has, and I have nothing but respect and admiration for him. I wish him all the best."

Lionel Messi has become the highest goalscorer in Inter Miami history with 34 strikes from 39 appearances. He is currently in the last 12 months of his contract and, at 37 years old, is likely in the final years of his illustrious career.