Batistuta: “Football Evolved, Center Forwards Changed”

Gabriel Batistuta, the iconic Argentine striker, has shared his perspective on the transformation of football, particularly the evolution of the center forward role. The former Fiorentina, Roma, and Inter Milan star expressed his disinterest in contemporary football, suggesting it lacks the enthusiasm he once had.

“I don’t watch much football. It’s boring me a lot, unfortunately. I lived from football, I like it as practice and analyzing it, but lately I don’t have that enthusiasm. I accompany my son a lot, who is going to be a coach.”

Batistuta, fondly known as “Batigol,” observes that the classic, area-predominating center forwards are no more. Today’s players are more dynamic, moving across the pitch, and may not even wear the number 9 shirt.

“Football is evolving and coaches are looking for ways to take advantage or deceive those in front of them. The 9 a la Batistuta, a la Vieri, no longer exists…”

Praising Argentine Talent: Álvarez and Martínez

Discussing the state of the current Argentine national team, Batistuta lauded both Lautaro Martínez and Julian Álvarez, noting that their level is such that coach Lionel Scaloni has a nice problem on his hands.

“I love them both. It is a nice problem that Scaloni has and I don’t know what the logic will be to choose.”

He recognized their leadership qualities and ability to make the opposing defense work hard.

Argentina’s World Cup 2026 Aspirations

Batistuta expressed confidence in Argentina’s chances for World Cup 2026, stating that the team’s recent World Cup victory has instilled confidence and experience in the squad.

“Argentina at this moment is one of the best there is. We have just won the World Cup and the boys know what they are playing. They are relaxed. They know what it’s like to win.”

Lionel Messi’s Preparations for World Cup 2026

Regarding Lionel Messi, Batistuta anticipates that the Argentine captain will be in top form for the upcoming World Cup, thanks to the less demanding MLS schedule.

“I imagine the usual Messi. The World Cup lasts a month and fills you with energy and desire. You can prepare. Even he can prepare better than those in Europe because the MLS is more relaxed. I see it to the fullest.”

Batistuta’s Life After Retirement

In closing, Batistuta reflected on his post-retirement life, expressing gratitude for the prosthetics that have improved his quality of life significantly.

“I solved the problem. They put a prosthesis on each leg and now I’m very well: I smile, I can walk and lead a normal life.”