Barcelona President Laporta Praises Messi’s Historic World Cup Form as Yamal and Gordon Earn Recognition

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup heads into its decisive semi-final stage, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has praised several players with close ties to the Spanish giants, reserving his strongest admiration for Lionel Messi, whose remarkable performances continue to rewrite football history.

Speaking to reporters in Dallas, Laporta described Messi’s tournament as “extraordinary” while also highlighting the impressive displays of Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal and newly signed England winger Anthony Gordon.

Messi Continues to Defy Age on Football’s Biggest Stage

At 39 years old, Lionel Messi has once again become the central figure of Argentina’s World Cup campaign. The veteran forward has scored eight goals in six matches, leading the tournament’s scoring chart and helping the defending champions reach another World Cup semi-final.

His performances have further strengthened his legacy after becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history with 21 goals. Despite entering the tournament as one of its oldest players, Messi has continued to deliver decisive moments, combining experience, leadership and clinical finishing.

Laporta praised the Argentine captain’s influence on the national team, saying Messi’s quality remains exceptional and that Argentina’s well-organised system allows him to make the difference when it matters most.

According to the Barcelona president, Messi’s talent continues to shine on the biggest stage, describing Argentina as a united team that benefits enormously from having one of football’s greatest-ever players leading the attack.

Barcelona Stars Making Their Mark Internationally

While celebrating Messi’s achievements, Laporta also turned his attention to Barcelona’s current generation of players representing their countries during the tournament.

Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has emerged as one of Spain’s standout performers, earning multiple Player of the Match awards as La Roja advanced to the semi-finals. Laporta said Barcelona takes pride in seeing its players succeed on the international stage, adding that their achievements reflect positively on the club.

He also commended several other Barcelona players, including Pedri, Dani Olmo and Pau Cubarsí, noting that each has delivered strong performances throughout the competition.

Anthony Gordon Impresses Following Barcelona Move

Laporta also praised England international Anthony Gordon, who recently joined Barcelona from Newcastle United.

The winger has played an important role in England’s run to the World Cup semi-finals, attracting attention with his creativity and work rate. Laporta specifically referenced Gordon’s assist in England’s victory over Norway, highlighting the quality of the pass that helped create one of Jude Bellingham’s goals.

The Barcelona president indicated that Gordon has quickly demonstrated why the club invested in him ahead of the new season.

Semi-Final Matches Set for High-Stakes Showdowns

The World Cup now enters its final stages with four leading nations battling for a place in the championship match.

Argentina will meet England in a highly anticipated semi-final featuring Messi against one of Europe’s strongest squads. On the other side of the bracket, Spain will take on France in another heavyweight encounter, with Yamal expected to play a key role for the Spanish side.

The winners of both matches will advance to the World Cup final, bringing the tournament one step closer to crowning its 2026 champions.

Why Laporta’s Comments Matter

Laporta’s remarks reflect Barcelona’s continued connection to both its legendary figures and emerging stars. While Messi left the club in 2021, he remains one of the greatest players in Barcelona’s history, making praise from the club’s president especially significant.

At the same time, Laporta’s public backing of young talents such as Yamal and new signing Gordon signals Barcelona’s confidence in the squad being assembled for the upcoming club season.

As the World Cup reaches its climax, performances on the international stage could further boost the confidence and reputation of several Barcelona players heading into the new European campaign.