Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revealed which team he will be cheering for at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, saying his support belongs to Argentina because of the country’s president, Javier Milei.
During a recent interview, the host mentioned Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, prompting Netanyahu to respond with a remark that quickly drew attention. “Before Messi, Milei. He’s a superstar,” the Israeli leader said, referring to the Argentine president rather than the football icon.
Praise for Javier Milei
Netanyahu praised Milei’s leadership, highlighting what he described as the Argentine president’s economic reforms and his strong support for Israel. The two leaders have developed a close diplomatic relationship since Milei took office, with Argentina strengthening ties with Israel through a series of public gestures and policy decisions.
The Israeli prime minister suggested that his admiration for Milei is the main reason he will be supporting Argentina during the tournament, even in a nation celebrated for producing one of football’s greatest players.
Politics Meets Football
While Lionel Messi remains Argentina’s most recognizable sporting figure worldwide, Netanyahu’s comments shifted the focus from football to politics. His response reflects the growing relationship between Israel and Argentina under Milei’s presidency rather than the country’s football success alone.
The remarks have sparked discussion online, with many noting the unusual moment in which a World Cup question turned into praise for a political leader instead of one of the game’s biggest stars.
