Argentina international Lucas Tripodi claims that even if Lionel Messi switched from 11-a-side football to futsal, he would still be considered “the ultimate” player.Messi is currently the most decorated player of all time and, in the opinion of many, the undisputed GOAT. He has accomplished nearly everything in his chosen field of work. At 36 years old, he still has more major awards in his sights and is currently signed with MLS team Inter Miami.

Messi is an expert on a regular football pitch and a size five ball, but how would he fare in the quick-witted, highly imaginative world of futsal? Tripodi, who is currently playing for Argentina and is a huge fan of Boca Juniors legend Juan Roman Riquelme, responded to the question on FIFA’s official website by saying, “Messi would be the ultimate.” following in Riquelme’s footsteps while pursuing numerous objectives as well.

Futsal is a popular childhood sport in South America where players develop their technical skills. When asked if elite players like Messi, who are at the pinnacle of the world football league, could transfer their skill set, Tripodi replied, “It’s easier for a futsal player to move to 11-a-side than vice-versa.” Futsal is a very quick and dynamic sport tactically, so it’s not for lack of technical ability. Learning it takes years. Futsal players typically process decisions and positional sense more quickly than other people. However, some players—like Messi—could undoubtedly transition and choose as well or better than a futsal player.

Messi has a contract with Inter Miami that runs through 2025, with an option for an additional year after that, so he won’t be changing careers anytime soon. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will also have additional international trophies to contend with as Argentina gets ready to defend its World Cup and Copa America titles in 2024 and 2026, respectively.