Switzerland's Xhaka calls facing Messi a 'privilege' but vows tough challenge

Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka has spoken with profound respect for Lionel Messi ahead of their World Cup quarter-final clash against Argentina, describing it as a "privilege" to share an era with the Argentine superstar.

"I don't know if we can stop him for 90 minutes, or even 120 minutes. For me, and for us, playing in the era of Messi, it is a privilege," Xhaka stated in the lead-up to the match. He further elaborated on the significance of facing Messi, adding, "It is a privilege to face him, it is a privilege to play in the era of Messi, and it is a privilege to be part of his history. He is one of the greatest players in the history of football."

“

I don't know if we can stop him for 90 minutes, or even 120 minutes. For me, and for us, playing in the era of Messi, it is a privilege.

While acknowledging Messi's unparalleled talent, Xhaka emphasized that Switzerland will not approach the game passively. "We will enjoy this match for sure, but we also want to show Switzerland's personality and make things extremely difficult for him and for Argentina," he declared.

“

It is a privilege to face him, it is a privilege to play in the era of Messi, and it is a privilege to be part of his history. He is one of the greatest players in the history of football.

This display of admiration marks a shift from Xhaka's typically assertive leadership style. Known as one of the team's strongest voices, he has previously called for greater discipline and a more grounded approach from his teammates during the tournament. However, Switzerland's subsequent strong performances, including a 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina and a group stage win against the host nation, followed by a penalty shootout victory over Colombia to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in 72 years, suggest his leadership has galvanized the team.

On a personal level, Xhaka is also having a notable tournament. His goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina made him one of the few Swiss players, alongside Xherdan Shaqiri, to score in three different World Cups (2014, 2018, and 2026). With 150 international caps, he is also Switzerland's most-capped player.

“

We will enjoy this match for sure, but we also want to show Switzerland's personality and make things extremely difficult for him and for Argentina.