Just as they did when winning the World Cup by beating France in the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, Fernandez and Messi lined up together in the Argentina starting XI as they opened this tournament with a statement 3-0 win over Algeria in Kansas City.

It was a flying start by the defending champions and one inspired by their legendary captain, as Messi – who will celebrate his 39th birthday during the tournament – netted all three goals for his first World Cup hat-trick, matching Miroslav Klose’s tally of 16 as the top scorer in World Cup history in the process.

For Fernandez, it is a dream come true to be playing alongside Messi while representing his country at a World Cup, and an opportunity he is hoping to grab with both hands, just as he did four years ago.

‘It will surely be Leo’s last World Cup so I hope to enjoy it to the fullest with him,’ said Enzo. ‘I always dreamed of playing with him.

‘I did the maths to see if it was possible and it ended up happening in the national team, playing in a World Cup with him, winning it, and the truth is his influence is everything.

‘He is very companionable and is always available for his team-mates – to listen, to advise. He is a great person and obviously he is my idol – I’ve always said it – and a very big reference for me.’

You can hear more from Enzo, including on the impact of Diego Maradona on the Argentinian population, in the interview above.