‘Only seen him in video games’ – Why ‘phenomenal’ Lionel Messi has Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli excited ahead of Brazil’s World Cup qualifier with Argentina

The Arsenal forward forms part of the Brazil squad that is preparing to face the reigning world champions at the Marcana on Tuesday. That contest will see precious points up for the grabs in the race to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Messi will be a star attraction in Rio de Janeiro, with even his opponents looking forward to gracing the same pitch as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. Martinelli falls into that category, with the 22-year-old’s only experience of Messi to date coming in the virtual realm.

Martinelli has said of lining up against the all-time great: “About Messi... he is a phenomenal player, the best in the world this year again. I want to enjoy the moment of being able to play against him, being able to be in the same stadium as him, watching him up close, because I've only seen him in video games. It's going to be a wonderful experience.”

Rivalry will not be put to one side when Brazil lock horns with old adversaries Argentina, but Martinelli will be savouring every moment that he gets on the field alongside Messi and may form part of a clamour to swap shirts at the final whistle.