Kyle Walker Names Lionel Messi as World Cup’s Best Forward, Says Argentina Star Is “Scary” With the Ball

Former Kyle Walker has named Lionel Messi as the best forward at the ongoing FIFA World Cup, insisting the Argentina captain remains ahead of some of the biggest attacking stars in the game.

Walker, who previously played for Manchester City FC, believes Messi has been superior to forwards such as Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland during the tournament.

Speaking during a session with talkSPORT, Walker praised Messi’s ability and said people continue to underestimate the impact of the Inter Miami CF forward.

“Messi by far. What he does with a football is scary; it shouldn’t really happen,” Walker said.

“I think people seem to write him off all the time, or he’s getting a little bit too old.”

Walker also reflected on Messi’s possible final World Cup appearance and the significance of Argentina potentially defending their title.

“Is this probably going to be the last World Cup? But to do what he’s done and if they retain the World Cup, what a dream that will be for him to go with.”

Messi, who helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup, continues to attract praise for his performances despite entering the later stages of his career. His ability to create chances, score goals and control games has kept him among football’s elite.

Walker’s comments add to the growing recognition that Messi’s influence has extended beyond statistics. For many observers, the Argentine’s ability to produce moments of brilliance at the biggest stage remains what separates him from other great attackers.

With the tournament still ongoing, the debate over the best player of the competition is far from over, but Messi’s name continues to remain at the centre of the conversation.