It's time to rewrite the record books, and former Chelsea Women's manager Emma Hayes is convinced that Lionel Messi and a new breed of veteran strikers are about to redefine what's possible for players in their 40s. The tantalising prospect of Just Fontaine's 13 World Cup goals being surpassed this summer is no longer fanciful, as the sheer quality of contemporary forwards sends shockwaves through the sport.
Hayes believes that Messi and his ilk are pushing each other to unprecedented heights, driving a new era of longevity in the world of elite football. No longer will players be expected to hang up their boots at 35 or 36 – as was once considered the norm. Instead, they'll continue to thrive, thanks to cutting-edge training methods, meticulous attention to diet and recovery, and an unrelenting drive to stay ahead of the game.
The likes of Messi (39), Robert Lewandowski (37, though not at this World Cup), and Harry Kane (32) are the trailblazers for this new generation. Their dedication to physical well-being is a far cry from the carefree days of yesteryear, when players like Diego Maradona could get away with anything. Today's stars know that every rep in the gym, every kilo on their diet, and every recovery session counts – and it's paying off in a big way.
Hayes is particularly effusive about Messi's evolution into a top-class creator and leader. His ability to draw defenders towards him before unleashing his teammates with precision passes is a masterclass in intelligent football. And let's not forget his remarkable decision-making on the field – often taking risks that others wouldn't dare, but always with an eye on the bigger picture.
So, who needs to compare and contrast Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo when we've got players like these pushing the boundaries of what's possible? Hayes makes a compelling case for fans to appreciate individual talents rather than constantly pitting them against each other. And let's not forget that Messi's recent exploits in the MLS – 29 goals in 28 regular season games in 2025, anyone? – prove that he remains an unstoppable force, regardless of the league or competition.