Argentina, the reigning world champions, have just been rocked by a massive internal earthquake — and at the center of it all stands Lionel Messi. According to multiple reports emerging from Buenos Aires, the Inter Miami superstar issued a shocking ultimatum to the national team on Tuesday night, demanding the immediate removal of Julián Álvarez from the squad.

Sources close to the Argentine camp claim that the tension had been “brewing for weeks,” but it exploded dramatically after a heated discussion between Messi and Álvarez during a closed training session. What began as a tactical disagreement reportedly escalated into a verbal clash, with Messi walking away visibly furious.

Hours later, Messi allegedly told the coaching staff and senior officials from the Argentine Football Association (AFA):

“Either he’s out, or you can forget about me leading this team to the World Cup. Without me, they can forget about 2026.”

The words, described by insiders as “cold and final,” sent shockwaves through the dressing room. Players were said to be in disbelief — some taking Messi’s side, others backing Álvarez, who has been one of Argentina’s brightest stars since the 2022 World Cup.

Head coach Lionel Scaloni reportedly tried to defuse the situation but soon issued his own stunning response during a late-night meeting. According to a source, Scaloni told the AFA:

“No one, not even Messi, is above the national team. If we start following ultimatums, we lose everything that made us champions.”

That statement spread through Argentine media within minutes, igniting a national frenzy. Fans flooded social platforms, torn between their eternal idol and the young striker representing the country’s next generation.

Within hours, the AFA was forced to issue an urgent statement attempting to calm the fire:

“The Argentine national team remains united under the values of respect, teamwork, and commitment. Any rumors of internal divisions are being exaggerated and do not represent the reality inside the group.”

But despite the official denial, reports from multiple journalists suggest the rift is very real. Messi, who has been the spiritual leader of Argentina for nearly two decades, is said to feel that Álvarez’s growing influence within the squad — and his recent attitude — have disrupted the harmony that once defined the world champions.

Several unnamed players allegedly described Messi as “hurt and disrespected”, particularly after Álvarez publicly questioned some tactical decisions in an interview last week. While Álvarez’s comments seemed innocent at first, Messi reportedly viewed them as a direct challenge to his authority.

Analysts believe this could mark a turning point for Argentina. If unresolved, it might even lead to Messi stepping away from the national team sooner than expected — something fans are not ready to imagine. “Messi is Argentina,” one supporter wrote on social media. “If he leaves, it’s the end of an era.”

Others, however, argue that it’s time for the new generation to step forward. “We can’t depend on one man forever,” another fan said. “Álvarez is the future. Scaloni is right to stand his ground.”

As dawn broke over Buenos Aires, one thing was certain — the unity that brought Argentina to glory in Qatar has been deeply shaken. Whether this storm calms or becomes a full-blown disaster may depend on a private meeting between Messi, Scaloni, and senior AFA officials set to happen in the coming days.

Until then, Argentina stands divided — between the legend who gave them everything and the rising star who represents their future.

🔥 And once again, Lionel Messi has proven that when he speaks, the entire football world listens — and trembles.