Capello: Lautaro the ideal sidekick for Messi, more Robin than Batman

Fabio Capello has given his predictions for the World Cup now that the group stage has come to a close and has given his analysis of the role that Inter’s Lautaro Martinez is playing alongside Lionel Messi in attack for Argentina: ‘He’s more of a Robin than a Batman compared to how we usually see him in Italy’.

Capello: ‘France look like Pele’s Brazil, Lautaro the ideal sidekick for Messi’ Heading into the first games of the new ‘round of 32’ at the 2026 World Cup in North America, there is already a possibility of a mouth-watering re-match of the 2022 final between reigning champions Argentina and 2018 victors France, who have ended up on opposite sides of the knock-out draw.

Capello is of the opinion that the 2026 World Cup is France’s to lose given the phenomenal strength of their attacking department, featuring the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Desire Doue to name just the starters. The likes of Marcus Thuram, Bradley Barcola and Jean-Philipe Mateta have had to settle for roles as mere understudies.

“Messi is Messi, but France’s attack is in a different category,” said Capello in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport . “Mbappe and co. look like Pele’s Brazil.”

But, despite the frightening French forward line, it is a 39-year-old Messi who has stolen the show thus far this tournament. His six group stage goals would have been enough to claim the Golden Boot at 10 of the last 12 World Cups dating back to 1978.

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – OCTOBER 15: Lautaro Martinez of Argentina celebrates with teammate Lionel Messi after scoring the team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 South American Qualifier match between Argentina and Bolivia at Estadio Más Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti on October 15, 2024 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images) “Leo is the genius who walks,” Capello declared. “He doesn’t run much, but he’s always there at the right time. His class is so immense that it overshadows his age. He’s showing a lot of pride, he doesn’t want to give up with ‘just’ the World Cup from 2022.”

Starting alongside Messi in attack for Argentina is Inter talisman Lautaro Martinez . Capello is impressed by the ability he has shown to settle into more of a supporting role while playing for his nation.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS – JUNE 27: Lautaro Martinez #22 of Argentina celebrates scoring the team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Jordan and Argentina at Dallas Stadium on June 27, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images) “Messi is extraordinary and Lautaro is confirming himself as his ideal sidekick. The Inter captain sacrifices a lot for Leo: He’s more of a Robin than a Batman compared to how we usually see him in Italy.

“Lautaro is also a top player, otherwise Scaloni wouldn’t prefer him to Julian Alvarez, another big name who is in the sights of all the European superpowers. But it’s not easy to just give up on the Inter man, he runs and presses for Leo as well.”