World Cup winner known as Lionel Messi a ‘half-autistic child’ and advised rival to ‘slap him’
Lionel Messi is arguably the best player of all time, but a former France World Cup winner apologised for his vile remarks when saying Antoine Griezmann should not be afraid to call out the Argentina legend
Christophe Dugarry won some of the biggest tournaments in the world and had a distinguished career at the highest level over many years – but the former France striker could not claim to be on the level of the all-time greats.
Yet that did not stop him from launching a vile tirade of insults against arguably the GOAT in the shape of Lionel Messi, for which the 1998 World Cup winner quickly apologised.
Back when Messi was still ripping it up for Barcelona, Dugarry took offence to compatriot Antoine Griezmann only being brought on for the final two minutes of a clash against Atletico Madrid.
Speaking on RMC Sport, Dugarry, who played for Barca during his career in which he also won Euro 2000 with France, said: “He [Griezmann] has lost confidence, his performances are not good.
“It’s true that Lionel Messi could give him a few more passes, but frankly it does not shock me. Griezmann loses the ball, he plays badly.
“Griezmann can’t just go to Messi for them to solve their problems. Griezmann is afraid of who? Of a kid who’s 1.50 metres and half autistic? He just has to slap him in the face if there is a problem.”
After the outburst the former French international, who turned 53 earlier this month, quickly posted an apology on social media while the publication removed the section from their podcast.
Writing on X, Dugarry said: “I am sincerely sorry for the extent and the response to my comments on Lionel Messi.
“I did not want to stigmatise people with autism disorders, it was not my intention. I apologise to the people I offended.”
Griezmann disappointed Barcelona fans in his £107m move from Atletico, scoring 35 goals in 102 appearances and promptly returned to Atletico just two years after his switch to the Nou Camp.
Messi, of course, left Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain at the same time as Griezmann, before his move to the MLS with David Beckham’s Inter Miami.
The Argentine forward led his side to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, winning the Ballon d’Or for a record eighth time the following year.
In 2024, Messi led Argentina to the second Copa America success of his career, beating Colombia 1-0 in the final after extra-time.
