Andoni Iraola compares Tadej Pogacar to Lionel Messi

Liverpool FC head coach Andoni Iraola has compared professional cyclist Tadej Pogacar to football legend Lionel Messi, suggesting the Slovenian cyclist may even surpass Messi in terms of his dominance over competitors.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Iraola described Pogacar as the best cyclist he has ever seen. He noted that while Messi is the easiest comparison for greatness, Pogacar likely holds a greater advantage over his peers.

Regarding the upcoming 2026 Vuelta a España, Iraola expressed that he does not see any current riders capable of challenging Pogacar, noting that the Slovenian is far ahead of the rest of the field.