The Argentina national team keeps gaining outside support. Santiago Solari, former Real Madrid manager and current media pundit, doubled down on his praise for Lionel Messi and the national side after their latest win. "Messi gave me goosebumps," Solari admitted in remarks that reignited debates about the team’s future following their 2-1 victory over England on July 15.

What did Solari say about Messi and Argentina?

In his first public comments since Argentina’s last match - a 2-1 win over England on July 15 - Solari didn’t hold back on his admiration for the captain. "Watching Messi play gave me goosebumps," the ex-Real Madrid boss said, also praising the atmosphere around Lionel Scaloni’s squad. "It’s a group that oozes confidence, and you can feel it on the pitch," he added, in remarks that quickly went viral among fans.

The former player, now a pundit, also touched on Argentina’s unbeaten run of five straight wins. "It’s no accident they’re still undefeated. There’s a winning mentality built from the coaching staff down to the players," Solari noted, leaving the door open for a possible return to coaching in the future.

Why Solari’s backing matters

Support from figures like Solari strengthens the institutional backing Scaloni’s team enjoys, especially at a pivotal moment in the cycle. After the 5-0 thrashing of Mexico in a pre-World Cup 2026 tune-up, confidence in the squad is soaring, though challenges remain. On July 19, Argentina will face Spain away in a clash that could decide their path to the next round.

Solari, who has managed elite clubs like Real Madrid and Inter Milan, also weighed in on managing egos in a star-studded locker room. "A group like this needs humility and ambition. Messi shows that every time he steps on the pitch," he stressed, a line that captures the spirit Scaloni aims to preserve.

What’s next for Argentina after Solari’s endorsement?

With five straight wins - including the latest 2-1 over England - the Argentina national team heads into the Spain clash riding high. Already through the group stage at World Cup 2026, the Albiceleste are eyeing top spot in Group C. Saturday’s match will be pivotal in determining if they keep their title push alive.

Solari’s endorsement comes as Scaloni’s team looks to maintain unity. After Enzo Fernández’ move to the Premier League, the squad proved it can reinvent itself without losing its core. "The Albiceleste isn’t one-name dependent. It’s deep, and that’s what makes them dangerous," the ex-coach concluded - a sentiment Argentina fans are embracing.

Last result: England 1-2 Argentina (July 15, 2026). The Albiceleste are on a five-game winning streak and face Spain away on July 19.