Huge Ambition! Enzo Fernandez Sets Sights on Argentina Captaincy

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has set his sights on becoming the captain of the Argentina national team, a position currently held by Lionel Messi.

Fernandez has been a mainstay in the national team since his breakout performance at the 2022 World Cup. He’s now set to continue his impressive form in midfield as Argentina aim to defend the title they won four years ago.

With Messi likely to call time on his international career after the 2026 World Cup, the question of who will eventually inherit the armband has been a frequent topic of debate in Buenos Aires.

“On a personal level, of course, I dream of captaining Argentina,” Fernández revealed to GIVEMESPORT. “But that decision doesn’t come down to me; it’s up to the coaching staff. I don’t know when it might be, time will tell. It’s certainly one of my dreams and I’d be honoured to wear the captain’s armband.”

Enzo Fernandez looks on during the international friendly match between Argentina and Iceland. (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images)

Despite his ambition to lead the team, Fernandez remains grounded and deeply appreciative of the time he currently spends on the pitch with Messi.

Fernandez who has been linked with a summer move away from Chelsea was quick to acknowledge the unique impact the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has on his teammates.

Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernandez celebrate a goal. (Photo by Luis ROBAYO / AFP via Getty Images)

“He’s different. He’s the greatest of all time, so it’s a privilege to share the dressing room with him,” Fernandez stated. “He’s always been my idol going back to my childhood. I always dreamed of playing with him, so he did make a big impression on me when I first saw him. As the years passed and I got to know him, it became more normal. He’s a great person, and I’m so proud to share these moments with him.”

As Argentina prepares for their first match of the tournament against Algeria, Fernandez is fully focused on helping his country become the first nation to successfully defend a World Cup title since Brazil achieved the feat in 1962.

“We’ll try to defend it and win it again, which is what this national team have to do,” Fernández asserted. “The Argentine people are so passionate, and we always want more. Winning the World Cup in 2022 is in the past now. We know it could be Messi’s last World Cup, so we’ll be there to defend our crown from Qatar as a team. We’ll do our best to retain it.”

After their first game against Algeria, Argentina will face Austria and will conclude the group stage against Jordan.