Alan Varela is eagerly anticipating the challenge of facing Lionel Messi at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 as FC Porto prepares to showcase its prowess on the global stage this June.
They say you should never meet your heroes, but for Alan Varela, the opportunity to face his idol is something he simply can’t wait for.
The Argentinian midfielder, currently playing for FC Porto, is set to go head-to-head with national icon Lionel Messi when the Portuguese giants take on Inter Miami at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 19. The highly anticipated clash is one Varela is relishing.
“Obviously, it’s very special to face him,” the 23-year-old said at Porto’s FIFA Club World Cup 2025 trophy tour. “The truth is that Messi is the best player in the world. I just hope he’s not at his brightest in that game. We will do our best to ensure Porto comes out on top in that match and throughout the tournament.”
Porto’s tournament journey doesn’t end there. Before and after their showdown with Javier Mascherano’s Inter Miami, they will face Brazilian powerhouse Palmeiras at MetLife Stadium and conclude their Group A campaign in East Rutherford against Egyptian club Al Ahly. If Porto advances to the knockout phase, Varela has his eyes set on one particular opponent.
“Obviously, River [Plate],” said Varela, the former Boca Juniors midfielder, when asked which Argentinian team he would prefer to face. “Boca and River are the biggest clubs in Argentina. This tournament is special because it allows us to compete against elite teams. I am committed to Porto, and I hope we can go as far as possible.”
Porto’s ambition to go deep into the tournament is shared by club captain Diogo Costa, who is determined to make a mark.
“It’s certainly a competition we want to win,” the goalkeeper stated. “Winning any title is a dream for a captain, but our main goal is to represent the club in the best possible way. Hopefully, we will lift that trophy on the final day.”
Porto’s thirst for silverware is well established. With 30 league titles, 20 Taça de Portugal trophies, five European championships, and two FIFA Intercontinental Cup triumphs, the club boasts an unparalleled record in Portuguese football. Club President Andre Villas-Boas, who enjoyed a highly successful coaching tenure in the 2010s, is eager to add another prestigious title to Porto’s legacy.
“It’s a beautiful trophy. I think it pairs well with the famous wines of Porto, one of the city’s great brands,” Villas-Boas said during the trophy tour, which made a stop at the club’s museum. “We have a rich history in world football, and we are proud to compete. Our goal is to perform well in the tournament and create space in our museum for this stunning trophy.”
Varela remains focused on his personal growth and contribution to the squad. With his impressive performances in the midfield, Porto fans have high expectations for the young Argentine. Varela’s ability to control the tempo of the game and his vision on the field will be key in Porto’s campaign. His presence in the lineup ensures that Porto’s midfield remains competitive against world-class opponents. As the tournament approaches, Varela is fully committed to delivering his best performance on the grand stage.