Zlatan Ibrahimovic has stated that Lionel Messi is now 'in a class of his own', placing him above legends Diego Maradona and Pele, following Argentina’s brilliant start to the 2026 World Cup.

The former Sweden international believes that Messi’s recent performances have ended any lingering debate about his status among football’s greatest players. The Argentina skipper scored twice in a 2-0 win over Austria, guiding his nation into the knockout rounds and setting a new all-time men’s World Cup goalscoring record.

Another milestone for the Argentina captain

Messi added another glittering chapter to his international career as Argentina overcame Austria 2-0 in their second group-stage match of the 2026 World Cup. The reigning world champions secured progression to the knockout stage, thanks to a brace from their captain. The Inter Miami star had an early setback when he missed a penalty following a VAR decision.

However, Messi answered in typical style, scoring twice to ensure victory for the Albiceleste. His double took his World Cup total to 18 goals, making him the outright leading scorer in men’s World Cup history. The feat followed his hat-trick in Argentina’s first group match against Algeria and extended his extraordinary form on the global stage.

Ibrahimovic ends the debate

The former Barcelona and AC Milan striker, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, expressed that Messi’s latest record has finally resolved the age-old question of who is football’s greatest-ever player. He also highlighted the Argentine’s remarkable consistency over nearly two decades at the top level.

Speaking to FOX Sports, Ibrahimovic remarked, "I don’t think there’s any debate left now. When you become the all-time top scorer in World Cup history, win the tournament, dominate across generations, and still deliver at 38 years old, what more do people want?"

He continued, "We’ve spent years comparing him to others, but even the legends before him can’t match his complete body of work. Pele, Diego Maradona, Johan Cruyff – they were all phenomenal, but Messi’s statistics, longevity, and trophies place him in a category of his own."

Record-breaking run goes on

Messi’s brace against Austria followed his hat-trick versus Algeria, giving him five goals across Argentina’s first two matches of the tournament. Ibrahimovic also took a humorous dig at his own World Cup record while praising Messi.

"Five goals in two games. I have zero goals in two World Cups," Ibrahimovic joked. "I’m happy for him and hope he continues. His birthday is coming up, so he should enjoy it, because we’re all enjoying watching him play. Amazing, just amazing, no words."

He added, "People can analyse Argentina’s tactics or their team play, but whenever something special is needed, there’s always one constant – Lionel Messi."

Argentina secure knockout qualification

Argentina head into their final Group J match against Jordan full of confidence after two straight wins. With their progression already guaranteed, manager Lionel Scaloni can consider rotating his squad, though it remains uncertain whether Messi will be given a rest or continue leading the team from the start.