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Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez has expressed his ambition to one day lead the Argentina national football team, revealing that he dreams of wearing the captain’s armband currently held by Lionel Messi. Since his stellar breakout at the 2022 World Cup, the former Benfica midfielder has established himself as a key figure in Argentina’s midfield.

Fernandez’s captaincy ambitions

As Messi’s illustrious career gradually approaches its final chapter, speculation continues in Buenos Aires about who will ultimately inherit the captaincy of the reigning world champions. Fernandez made no secret of his desire to take on that responsibility in the future.

“On a personal level, of course, I dream of captaining Argentina,” Fernandez told GIVEMESPORT. “But that decision isn’t mine to make; it’s up to the coaching staff. I don’t know when it might happen — time will tell. It’s definitely one of my dreams, and I’d be honoured to wear the captain’s armband.”

Honour of playing with Messi

While Fernandez has his eyes set on a leadership role, he remains humble and grateful for the opportunity to share the pitch with Inter Miami icon Lionel Messi. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has led Argentina to three consecutive major titles between 2021 and 2024, continuing to be the cornerstone of Lionel Scaloni’s squad. Fernandez openly spoke about the influence Messi has had on him and the entire team.

“He’s different. He’s the greatest of all time, and it’s a privilege to share the dressing room with him,” Fernandez said. “He’s been my idol since childhood. I always dreamed of playing alongside him, and when I first met him, it was a huge moment for me. Over time, it became more normal, but he’s still a great person and I’m proud to share these experiences with him.”

Post-World Cup growth

Fernandez’s meteoric rise is closely tied to Argentina’s World Cup triumph in Qatar. Initially a substitute, he fought his way into the starting lineup and ultimately claimed the Young Player of the Tournament award. Reflecting on his journey since then, the midfielder spoke about his personal growth and how he has developed both on and off the field.

“I’ve grown a lot individually. Whether or not you win the World Cup, you evolve as a footballer. You keep improving and working on your weaknesses. I feel more mature and like more of a leader now,” Fernandez said. “I’ve been focusing on that development personally, and my club Chelsea gives me confidence to apply those lessons daily. I’m happy with my role and aim to keep progressing, showing my passion and commitment in every training session.”

Targeting back-to-back world titles

At just 25, Fernandez already boasts both a World Cup and a Copa América winner’s medal, but the midfielder is determined to achieve even more. With Argentina gearing up for another global campaign in North America, his focus is firmly on helping the Albiceleste become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup.

With the upcoming tournament expected to mark Messi’s final appearance on the world stage, anticipation and motivation within the Argentine camp are at an all-time high. “We’ll try to defend it and win it again — that’s what this national team must do,” Fernandez declared. “The Argentine people are incredibly passionate; we always want more. Winning the 2022 World Cup is in the past now. We know this might be Messi’s last World Cup, so we’ll fight together to defend our crown from Qatar. We’ll give everything to retain it.”

Argentina will open their World Cup title defence against Algeria, then face Austria before concluding the group stage with a clash against Jordan.

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