Ahead of the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, a verbal exchange has emerged between former Manchester City teammates. Spanish defender Aymeric Laporte expressed concerns about Argentina's aggressive style and the refereeing in their matches. In an interview with Marca, Laporte said: "In the last games we have seen things that have surprised us a lot, actions that are allowed" and added that Argentina "is a team that leaves many messages" Source: emolcl. Laporte emphasized that such behavior should not be permitted in big competitions as it can destabilize opponents Source: infobae.
Former Argentina striker Sergio Agüero responded during his streaming show "Vamo' a Juga'", where he sent a voice message to Laporte. "What surprises you? Don't act tough because when we see each other, you back down", Agüero said Source: emolcl. He later clarified on social media that it was a joke, stating: "Laporte and I are friends. Don't make controversy please" Source: infobae.
Agüero also praised Lionel Messi, calling him the best in history and noting that at 39, Messi is playing as if he were 20 Source: infobae. He concluded that Argentina is in the final on its own merit Source: infobae.
“"No me preocupa en absoluto la agresividad dentro de lo que es el fútbol. Si es consentida y el árbitro hace su trabajo, no tengo ningún problema. Sí es verdad que en los últimos partidos hemos visto cosas que nos han extrañado muchísimo, acciones que se dejan pasar"”
“"Qué hacés Aymeric… Mirá que jugamos juntos en Manchester City. Acabás de decir que en los últimos partidos vieron cosas que los han extrañado muchísimo… ¿Qué es lo que te extraña? No te hagas el picante porque cuando nos vemos, arrugás"”
“"Gente no entienden lo que es una broma? Laporte y yo somos amigos. No hagan polémica por favor"”