Jude Bellingham's 2022 verdict on Lionel Messi has resurfaced on social media as England prepares to face Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final tonight in Atlanta. The Stourbridge-born midfielder, now 23, previously called Messi 'not human' in an interview with Borussia Dortmund's official YouTube channel in September 2022.
Bellingham's Admiration for Messi
When asked to choose between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Bellingham said: 'Messi for me, for sure. I just think he has a good mix of numbers and the watch factor as well. You can just watch him and be like, 'How does he do that?' Every time I watch him, he does something and I think, 'He can't be human,' so I think I'd say Messi.'
These comments gained traction again as England and Argentina meet in a high-stakes semi-final. Bellingham has been England's standout star this tournament with six goals, going toe-to-toe with the legendary Argentine captain he has admired for years.
England's Path to the Semi-Final
England secured their place in the semi-finals after a victory against Norway, but now face their hardest challenge yet: Argentina, the defending champions. Up front for Argentina is Lionel Messi, who is on track to secure the golden boot this World Cup. Close behind him is Bellingham, who has torn up the field this tournament.
Match Details and Security
Tonight's second FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final is a monumental clash between old foes. The winner will advance to the final on July 19 to face Spain at the New York-New Jersey Stadium. Kick-off is at 8pm, broadcast on BBC One and streaming via BBC iPlayer, with coverage beginning at 7pm.
Due to decades of political tension, notably dating back to the 1982 Falklands War, the FBI, FIFA, and local police have designated this the highest-risk match of the entire tournament. Extra security personnel have been deployed across Atlanta. While fans will enter through segregated, designated gates, they will sit together inside the 68,000-capacity arena due to the nature of resale ticketing.
