The anti-Messi and anti-national team rift: The most absurd thing ever seen, and 100% Argentinian

Argentina's notorious 'grieta,' or deep societal division, has expanded its reach into the realm of football, creating what the author describes as an absurd and uniquely Argentinian phenomenon. What once were heated but contained discussions in cafes have now morphed into illogical divisions, amplified by social media and certain media personalities. For years, the debate around Lionel Messi centered on whether he sang the national anthem or performed better for Barcelona than for Argentina. Some even questioned his Argentinian identity, suggesting he was a product of club-driven management.

This footballing 'grieta' was once largely confined to the rivalry between Barcelona and Catalonia versus Madrid and Real Madrid supporters. While intense, it could be viewed from a distance, colored by regionalism. However, the current division cuts much deeper, impacting the national team and its connection with the public. This intensified division is particularly concerning given the unprecedented unity and celebration that followed Argentina's World Cup victory in Qatar.

The triumph in Qatar seemed to mend long-standing rifts, uniting generations in a shared sense of pride and joy. The celebrations were immense, both in Qatar and across Argentina. Even the national team's return to the Monumental stadium in March 2023 was met with overwhelming emotion, with players, including Messi, visibly moved. Coach Lionel Scaloni, despite facing some questioning, navigated these pressures with grace, maintaining a strong connection with the team and the fans.

This newfound bond between the national team and the public, especially with Messi, appeared unbreakable. However, the article suggests that this unity is now being challenged. It points to an incident upon returning from Qatar, where AFA president Claudio Tapia seemingly shielded Messi from political exploitation by a government official. The author implies that even this protective action, involving an unexpected bodyguard now facing legal issues, hints at underlying tensions that could be exploited to fracture the post-World Cup harmony.