The national team's head coach stated that the star deserves to play again in Buenos Aires and explained how he will determine the roster for the 2026 World Cup
Lionel Scaloniparticipated in a meeting organized by the AFA in Miami and, as expected, was asked about the future of Lionel Messi in the Argentina National Team. After the recent 3-0 victory over Venezuela in the South American Qualifiers, the captain himself had hinted that it would be his last official match in the country.
"We experienced it just like you did, as Leo's last match, knowing the emotion it carried, that everything was for him and his teammates. So, well, the emotions of that day are still there. It was very special, especially because everything went perfectly: he was able to enjoy it, he scored goals, and he was with his family, which is what really matters," said Scaloni.
However, the coach left open the possibility of a special return: "It won't be his last match in Buenos Aires, we'll see. He deserves to play again."
Scaloni cree que Messi no jugó su último partido en el país con la Selección
The squad list for the 2026 World Cup
Looking ahead to the next World Cup, Scaloni explained that he will be cautious when announcing the final squad: "Based on the experience from the last World Cup, when we had the list set and in the last week two players dropped out, it would be wise to wait until the very last moment to see how the players arrive."
Scaloni quiere esperar hasta último momento para hacer la lista
He also emphasized that there is still a long way to go: "There is still a long way to go, there are a lot of friendlies and a lot of young players who can contribute and whom we can continue to watch."
The Argentina National Team's upcoming fixtures
La Albiceleste will play again in October 2025, during the first FIFA double matchday after the South American Qualifiers. On Friday the 10th, they will face Venezuela in Miami, while on Monday the 13th they will play against Puerto Rico in Chicago.
