As he prepares to play Super Bowl LX in San Francisco, Drake Maye is not only in the spotlight for his performance with the New England Patriots, but also for his statements off the field. The young quarterback was questioned by the press about the 2026 World Cup, and his response immediately connected with millions of soccer fans, especially in the U.S. Hispanic community.
During a conference prior to the NFL’s most important game, Maye asked if Lionel Messi would be present with the Argentine national team in the next World Cup. When confirmed that he would, the quarterback did not hesitate: “I choose Argentina with Messi. Obviously, the U.S.; I have to root for the U.S. too, so U.S. or Argentina.” His words reflect the global impact of soccer and the figure of the Argentine star even on elite athletes in other sports.
Maye connects the NFL with soccer
This is not the first time Drake Maye has expressed his admiration for international soccer.
Days earlier, he revealed that his favorite players are Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr. and Kylian Mbappé.
He also pointed out that he shares the number 10 with them, which he described as “a great number”.
These statements reinforce the growing connection between the NFL and soccer, two sports that will converge in the United States during the 2026 World Cup.
In sports, Drake Maye is going through a key moment in his career.
The 23-year-old quarterback is in his second NFL season and is one step away from winning his first title with the Patriots.
For many New England fans, his projection places him as the heir apparent to Tom Brady, and an early championship would back up those expectations.
If successful, Drake Maye would lift the Vince Lombardi Trophy ahead of other established quarterbacks such as Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson or Joe Burrow.
Immediate challenge in the NFL
I choose Argentina with Messi
Drake Maye
The challenge, however, will not be easy.
Before that, Drake Maye must face one of the strongest defenses of the regular season, the Seattle Seahawks.
In addition to measuring himself against a more experienced quarterback, Sam Darnold, who came to the NFL in 2018.
In parallel, the 2026 World Cup is fast approaching and promises to mark a before and after in the history of soccer.
The tournament will begin on June 11 and will be the first with 48 teams, 104 matches and venues divided among Mexico, the United States and Canada.
The final will be played in New York at MetLife Stadium and will include a Super Bowl-style halftime show for the first time.
For the U.S. Hispanic audience, Drake Maye’s words reflect how the 2026 World Cup is already beginning to generate conversation even in the heart of American sports.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
