Müller: Messi was next to me – he looked at the referee and said, “We’re losing, help us”
Thomas Müller has recalled an incident from the 2010 World Cup match between Germany and Argentina, recounting a moment with Lionel Messi that, according to him, illustrates the influence the Argentine could have on referees. The German striker’s remarks have gone viral on social media and have once again sparked discussions about refereeing, especially
Thomas Müller has recalled an incident from the 2010 World Cup match between Germany and Argentina, recounting a moment with Lionel Messi that, according to him, illustrates the influence the Argentine could have on referees.
The German striker’s remarks have gone viral on social media and have once again sparked discussions about refereeing, especially after the controversies that accompanied the 2026 World Cup.
“I got a card just because Messi was nearby”
Müller recalled the 2010 World Cup quarter-final, when Germany defeated Argentina by a commanding 4-0 scoreline.
“We were leading Argentina. Messi was next to me when the ball bounced off the ground and hit my arm, which was close to my body,” Müller said.
According to him, the referee reacted immediately by booking him.
“I think the only reason was that Messi was standing near me. I had the impression that he looked at the referee and said to him: ‘We’re losing, give us a little help,’” the German footballer added.
🚨🗣 Thomas Müller speaks about referees favoring Messi:
— 𝐓𝐌 (@TouchmineX) July 22, 2026
"We were already leading against Argentina, and Lionel Messi was standing right next to me.
The ball bounced off the ground and then hit my hand, which was in this position.
The referee immediately showed me a yellow…
