Hidden Sparks Behind the Messi-Lewandowski Showdown
7 January 2026
Behind the Hidden Strain Between Messi and Lewandowski
Footage of clashes between Robert Lewandowski and Lionel Messi during the 2022 World Cup final circulated widely, but soon it became clear their relationship had already soured long before the final whistle. In an exclusive BeIN Sports interview, Sebastian Staszyszki, author of Lewandowski's unofficial biography, suggested they are not the type to go out for drinks or dinner together. During the Poland vs Argentina clash in Qatar, sparks flew as subtle gestures and sharp words signaled mutual discontent, keeping fans hooked.
In one moment, the Inter Miami star reportedly ignored Lewandowski's apology after a foul, underscoring a chilly dynamic that lingered beyond the pitch.
The roots trace back to the 2021 France Football Ballon d'Or ceremony; Lewandowski did not win the Ballon d'Or in 2020 when he was widely regarded as the world's best, after the ceremony was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A year later, he rose back to global prominence, but finished behind Messi by a narrow margin. Staszyszki noted that Lewandowski felt an icy chill when the final results were revealed, underscoring a bittersweet near-miss for the year.
He adds that there was never a single moment when the feud really ended; while the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry endured, there was also a period when Lewandowski was arguably the best in the world, a reality not pleasant for a player known for his fierce pride.
We saw this tension again during the Poland-Argentina match in Qatar, a direct duel that drew huge attention from fans around the globe.
Staszyski concluded with curiosity about the improbable idea of them playing on the same team; he doubts it could happen but would love to see this duo for himself and for fans worldwide. Still, he insists they are not the social type; recalling the 2021 Ballon d'Or ceremony in Paris, Lewandowski sat beside Messi and smiles were scarce, the atmosphere charged rather than friendly. It is not a war, just two proud giants who care deeply about football more than any public personas.
Punchline 1: Even a referee would need a stopwatch to measure the silence between them on football's throne.
Punchline 2: If they ever joined forces on a single squad, the ball might request a transfer — it would sprint faster than rumors to try to escape their brilliance.
