"I truly enjoy playing alongside Leo; there will be no one else like him," Mac Allister told reporters at the World Cup on 21/6. "Witnessing his actions firsthand reveals their extraordinary nature. I simply try to leverage his presence because he is crucial to our victories. I also deeply admire him."

Mac Allister (left) and teammates celebrate with Messi (center) at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri, USA on 17/6. Photo: Reuters

Argentina began their World Cup campaign strongly with a Messi hattrick in the 3-0 victory against Algeria on 17/6. In his 200th match for the national team, the 38-year-old forward equaled the record for most World Cup goals scored by a player (16 goals).

"It is incredibly challenging to emulate his actions, because you can conceptualize it, but replicating it is impossible," Mac Allister added about Messi. "What I have learned from him are the values and humility he maintains, even having achieved his current stature."

Messi continues to defy expectations as he approaches the twilight of his career, and his Argentina teammates consistently express their astonishment at his abilities. "His presence instills a sense of strength, calm, and confidence in the entire team," Mac Allister added. "We recognize the necessity of constructing this squad around Messi. Our priority is ensuring he feels happy and comfortable on the pitch. For us, playing alongside him is a true privilege."

Mac Allister is instrumental in Messi's goal creation, showcasing tactical acumen that allows the Inter Miami forward to perform at his peak. Regarding his contribution to Messi's opening goal against Algeria, Mac Allister stated: "On the first goal, I was positioned slightly between the lines. I saw Leo behind me. Many commended my decision to let the ball pass, but any footballer understands the pace of Rodrigo De Paul's pass, and I knew it was not intended for me."

The Liverpool midfielder also commented on Messi's decisive goal: "The third goal was a superb team play. The move began on the right wing, culminating on the left with a cut-back pass to Leo, followed by magic as he curled it precisely inside the far post. That was another extraordinary feat Leo consistently delivers."

Looking ahead, Mac Allister and his teammates are focusing on their next matches. Argentina will face Austria on 22/6 before concluding the group stage with a showdown against Jordan.

Argentina is aiming to become the first team to successfully defend their World Cup title since Brazil in 1962.

Vy Anh