Arsenal legend Ian Wright has backed the central defensive partnership of Marc Guéhi and John Stones to neutralise Lionel Messi when England face Argentina in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Wright pointed to England's disciplined defensive shape — their ability to stay narrow, absorb pressure, and transition quickly — as the foundation for keeping Argentina's talisman in check. He reserved particular praise for Guéhi and Stones, expressing full confidence in the pair ahead of what promises to be one of the tournament's defining encounters.