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Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that Lionel Messi will "keep playing as long as he wants," emphasizing that the legendary captain remains just as intensely driven as he has always been.
Messi has shared a complex and evolving relationship with the Argentine national side. Long burdened as the team's underperforming focal point, the diminutive superstar stepped away from international football twice before Scaloni even assumed the managerial role.
Following Argentina's disappointing exit at the 2018 World Cup, Scaloni personally called Messi in an effort to persuade him to return. "You guys are crazy," Messi reportedly told the incoming coach. Nevertheless, after witnessing a revamped squad built around a vibrant young core flourish without him, the celebrated star was eventually lured back into the setup.
Argentina claimed the 2021 Copa América title, and Messi entered the subsequent World Cup declaring it would be his final appearance on the international stage. Yet the sheer joy of that victory in Qatar prolonged his career, and Argentina's continued dominance yielded the 2024 Copa América. Despite never formally confirming his participation in this summer's World Cup, Messi was an expected inclusion in Scaloni's squad—and it may not even be his last.
"He'll keep playing as long as he wants because we already know what he's capable of," the Argentina boss told Olé. "It's no surprise that he's playing in his sixth World Cup. How could that be a surprise? What is surprising is that he's won only four titles with the national team."
"He hasn't changed much," Scaloni added, "he's still the same, still competitive, he's going to play in his sixth World Cup, and he has the same hunger. And I don't think he'll change; he's the model you want to set for any soccer player. Look, it's not about what you win, it's not about how you play, but about how you carry yourself, and that's what we try to help the younger players understand. They're beginning to grasp it."
The Incredible Power Messi Wields for Argentina
The aircraft awaiting Argentina's squad at Ezeiza airport in Buenos Aires, set to transport them to the U.S. for this summer's World Cup, had been specially wrapped in the national team's iconic colors. They could have settled for a few sky blue stripes on the tail, but a number was added as well. There was really only one option.
Some might argue that the Argentine squad being literally flown to the tournament aboard a plane dedicated to Messi is a somewhat on-the-nose metaphor. Yet, given his profound influence over both players and coaching staff, it may well be an entirely appropriate tribute.
"Every decision we've made, we've discussed it with him," Scaloni openly admitted. "There's no point in me standing here claiming I'm the sole decision-maker: in his case—and I believe he's earned it—I always consult with him, check how he's feeling, and see if we can find common ground.
"I think that's the right approach, because, as I've said, even when he's been on the pitch facing considerable challenges, he's given us so much. So sometimes it's even better when he's going through a tough spell, because of everything he contributes."
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Messi has been managing a minor muscular complaint heading into this summer's competition after being substituted off during his final pre-World Cup match for Inter Miami. Scaloni stopped short of giving a definitive update on his key player's condition but hinted at the underlying concerns he holds.
"I imagine every national team is in the same situation, anxious about the World Cup opener, about ensuring most of their players arrive fit and healthy, in the best shape possible," the World Cup-winning coach reflected. "It's very hard to reach 100%, to hit your absolute peak, but we're in a good place."
As Scaloni was keen to emphasize, Messi will manage his own recovery timeline.
However, the dynamic between the two former teammates is far from one-sided.
Why Scaloni Has the Edge Over Every Previous Argentina Manager When It Comes to Messi
Messi has worked under nine different international managers across his two decades as an Argentina player. From the warm guidance of José Pékerman, his former youth coach, to the commanding presence of the iconic Diego Maradona, none appeared able to truly unlock the best of the modern era's greatest player. That was until Scaloni arrived.
The distinct advantage the retired right back could draw upon was a shared history of representing the national team alongside Messi.
"Having been a teammate, there are things that work in your favor, because you got to know him in a completely different way," Scaloni explained. "Because ultimately, you have to maintain a certain distance—there's always a gap between the coaching staff and the players. But having experienced his daily routine, having shared a dressing room, gives you a real edge.
"And then there's also being straightforward: there are moments when you need to speak to him just as you would any other player, and always with honesty as your foundation. I think sincerity is crucial.
"It's vital not to talk only about soccer. Their lives involve so much more than just the game. They face challenges just like the rest of us. Sitting down to share some mate [a traditional South American hot drink], as we've done with many of the guys, including Messi, and talking about life in general. I think that step away from focusing purely on football is really important."