The mystery around: Lionel MessiThe viral dressing room talk before 2026 in Argentina FIFA World Cup The end was finally answered, with the father of Alexis Mac Allister rejecting the speculation of an internal crisis and insisting that the captain’s words were completely taken out of context.Carlos Mac Allister has revealed he even briefly wondered if something was going on inside the Argentina camp after watching footage of Messi repeatedly telling his team-mates to “forget everything” ahead of the final against Spain. The clip quickly spread on social media, fueling theories that Argentina’s squad were dealing with tensions behind the scenes before suffering a 0-1 extra-time loss to New Jersey.However, according to Carlos, there is nothing wrong with Messi’s message.ALSO READ: Are Argentina under more pressure than usual? Messi’s tunnel pep talks fuel fan theories – WATCH
“I asked Alexis what happened”
According to a report by La Nación, Carlos admitted that the video initially confused him.“I sent a message to Alexis asking her: what happened in the dressing room? Did something happen?The speculation stems from footage released by ESPN showing Messi urging his teammates to stay calm ahead of the biggest match of the tournament.“Come on, young people, stay calm. The most important thing is that you stay calm,” said Messi.The Argentina captain then added the line that sparked widespread debate.“Let’s forget everything. Let’s just play. Let’s focus on the game, lads,” added Messi.Those words prompted countless theories online, with many fans interpreting them as evidence that something happened behind closed doors before kick off.According to Carlos Mac Allister, the reality is less dramatic.
Messi’s message is purely tactical
Carlos said that his son immediately rejected any suggestion of chaos in the dressing room.However, Alexis explained that Messi only reminded the players to focus on their football and stick to Argentina’s tactical plan.“He told me that they talk about going out to play in the sense of football, to keep it on the ground, keep moving the ball, make triangles, and not just lump it forward. That’s what they mean,” said Carlos.He added that the short clip circulating online lacks surrounding context, making it easy for people to reach the wrong conclusions.“Since then, many doubts have arisen in the past few days because of that post that has been circulating, and many people have spoken to me about it,” he added.Carlos insists there will be no arguments, no dressing-room divisions and no internal crisis before the final.
Argentina’s Alexis Mac Allister (20) reacts after Spain’s Ferran Torres scores a goal. (AP Photo)
Scaloni also dismissed the speculation
The rumors gained more momentum after reports claimed that Messi and head coach Lionel Scaloni did not agree on Argentina’s tactical approach.However, Scaloni dismissed the suggestions after the match.“I don’t look at social media. I don’t know anything. I have no idea what you’re talking about,” said the coach of Argentina.When asked further, he added. “I can’t believe what you’re asking me. We’re headed in a different direction, guys.”Carlos also rejected claims that anything other than Spain’s performance will decide the World Cup final.According to him, every player in Argentina gave everything they had, but Spain simply proved to be the best team of the night.The clarification comes after days of intense speculation generated by Messi’s emotional speeches before kick-off and at half-time, with the captain repeatedly urging his teammates to remain calm, show personality and focus only on football.While the viral footage has sparked endless theories on social media, Carlos Mac Allister’s account offers the clearest explanation.