World Cup: Argentina boss, Lionel Scaloni speaks on Messi’s retirement

Argentina head coach, Lionel Scaloni, addressed questions regarding Lionel Messi’s future with the national team ahead of their 2026 final against Spain on Sunday, July 19.

La Albiceleste aims to become the first team in 64 years to secure back-to-back titles, and many speculate that this could be Messi’s last appearance in Argentina’s colors, irrespective of the match’s result.

In a press conference prior to the final at the New York New Jersey Stadium, Scaloni conveyed his deep respect for Messi. He remarked (as reported by All about Argentina.

He said, “Messi told me, ‘We’re a pure history,’ but the one who’s truly history is him, a legend. Hearing him say that fills me with pride. To have the greatest footballer the world has ever seen think that about this group is something truly wonderful.”

When questioned if Sunday’s final would mark Messi’s last World Cup game, Scaloni responded, “Is Sunday going to be Messi’s last World Cup match? I don’t know, who knows? You’ll have to ask him. He never stops surprising us, so…”

Lionel Messi is among only three players to have participated in six different editions.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient guided Argentina to victory four years ago in Qatar, and at the age of 39, this current edition is anticipated to be his farewell appearance.