Argentina President Javier Milei has once again thrown his support behind Lionel Messi and the national team, dismissing criticism that followed the country’s controversial World Cup campaign and insisting many of the attacks stem from jealousy over Argentina’s success.
Milei had already defended the team throughout the tournament as Argentina faced criticism from sections of the international media and rival supporters. After the World Cup, he doubled down on that stance with a series of social media posts.
One post read: “If you have enemies, it means you have stood for something. We stand for Argentina.” Another claimed Argentina attracts criticism because “they envy us, because we excel in almost everything.”
The president later shared an AI-generated image showing himself opening his shirt to reveal the Argentina national team jersey underneath, alongside the message: “Long live Argentina!”
Milei and several members of his cabinet regularly reacted to Argentina’s matches during the World Cup. Following the team’s run to the final, he even offered the presidential palace, Casa Rosada, as a venue to welcome the players if they had returned as champions.
Argentina’s campaign sparked widespread debate on social media, with some critics alleging the team benefited from favourable refereeing decisions. Others also criticised the country’s behaviour and culture, adding to the online backlash.
The controversy intensified after Spanish singer Rosalía criticised Argentina in a social media post following the World Cup final. Although she later apologised, the post triggered a wave of anger in Argentina. After receiving abusive messages, a planned concert in Córdoba was cancelled.
Speaking on Thursday, presidential spokesperson Adrián Ravier described the situation as a major social media phenomenon rather than a broader reflection of reality.
He also highlighted another message from Milei, saying the president had written: “You will see where Argentines take this country.” Ravier added that Argentina’s economic programme was improving the country’s situation and becoming an example for others.
