What Is Messi's Preferred Formation? 'Classic Or Contemporary?'

Last Updated:November 13, 2025, 13:20 IST

Messi opined that he felt much more comfortable plying his trade in a rather contemporary 4-3-3 formation, that has yielded dividends in modern day football.

Lionel Messi during a training session ahead of a World Cup 2026 qualifying match against Venezuela. (AP Photo)

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi opened up on the formation he likes to play in the most while discussing a variety of topics ranging from future goals and post-retirement plans.

Messi opined that he felt much more comfortable plying his trade in a rather contemporary 4-3-3 formation, that has yielded dividends in modern day football.

In a quick rapid fire format of questioning, the 38-year-old revealed that he’d much rather serve as a defender than as a shot-stopper and be on the end of a nutmeg than turn the ball into his own net.

Messi also said that he’d prefer to “Score the winning goal" rather than net a hattrick and watch it go in vain as his team suffered in yet another nod to the man’s teamspirit.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner also stated that he’d much prefer to win the FIFA World Cup again with the Albiceleste over clinching yet another individual title.

Messi achieved his ultimate moment of glory at the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar with a decisive victory over France, leading Argentina to their third title. The thrilling match between Argentina and France ended 3-3 after extra time, requiring a penalty shoot-out to determine the winner.

Messi scored twice for Argentina, with Angel Di Maria adding another goal. Kylian Mbappe responded with three goals, making it an electrifying game.

Argentina began their World Cup campaign with a surprising 1-2 defeat to Saudi Arabia but turned their fortunes around with a 2-0 win over Mexico. They secured their spot in the knockout stages with another 2-0 win over Poland.

In the Round of 16, Argentina outperformed Australia with a 2-1 win, followed by a thrilling quarterfinal victory over the Netherlands, ending 4-3 in favour of the Albiceleste. Messi and his team then dominated Croatia 3-0 in the semifinal before clinching the prestigious trophy after the exhilarating final.

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