'He is crazy' - Lionel Messi backed to play through to 2026 World Cup as Lionel Scaloni admits Argentina are still 'built around' Inter Miami superstar after his evolution into a midfielder

 

Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, expressed confidence in Lionel Messi's ability to continue playing until the 2026 World Cup, praising the football icon's dedication and work ethic.

Scaloni expressed support for Messi participating in the 2026 World Cup, discussing the superstar's training routine. There's speculation about Scaloni potentially leaving the Argentina national team. If you subscribe to MLS Season Pass via Apple TV through the links on this page, we may earn a commission.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The manager who led Argentina to World Cup victory is confident that Messi can continue playing until the 2026 global tournament. This belief is rooted in Messi's exceptional performance during training sessions, where he still impresses his teammates. Scaloni acknowledged that the Albiceleste team is structured around the 36-year-old, who has transitioned into a midfield role in recent months.

LIONEL SCALONI SAID?

In an interview with Bobo TV, the 45-year-old coach remarked, "Messi's dedication in the [2022] World Cup was extraordinary; he played with immense passion. Witnessing his performance up close is indescribable; if I shared the things he does in training, it might sound unbelievable. His versatility is incredible. I advised Leo to keep playing as long as he finds joy on the field. He has demonstrated that football has no boundaries, which is truly remarkable.

"Starting as a striker in his career, transitioning to a winger, and now evolving into a midfielder, Messi can excel in any position. The team is structured around him. While I believe he can continue with the National Team, the ultimate decision rests with him."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Following the triumph over Brazil in the recent 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Scaloni suggested a possible departure from the Argentina national team. Although it remains uncertain whether he will indeed leave the current world champions, Real Madrid has expressed interest in Scaloni as a potential successor to Carlo Ancelotti, whose contract concludes at the season's end.

THE NEXT LIONEL MESSI?

The ex-Barcelona standout is presently savoring a break from competitive soccer, given the conclusion of the MLS season. There were purported plans for Inter Miami to engage in a friendly match against Al-Nassr in 2024; however, the club has refuted any intentions of participating in such a game in the upcoming period.

Your favourite Lionel Messi moment?

Share your thoughts on Lionel Messi's standout moments, from his brilliance in Clasico matches to the glory of winning the World Cup and the joy of Copa America triumph. As a prodigy from Barcelona turned undisputed football GOAT, join the conversation in the comments to discuss your favorite Messi moments and discover what fellow fans consider the most memorable.

Numerous iconic moments in Lionel Messi's career:

1. Unforgettable goal against Getafe in 2007, a contender for the goal of the century.

2. Remarkable solo run versus Madrid in the 2011 UEFA Champions League semi-final.

3. Dazzling five-goal performance against Leverkusen in the 2012 UEFA Champions League.

4. Setting a Barca milestone with a record-breaking hat-trick against Granada in 2012, becoming the club's all-time top scorer.

5. Another record-breaking hat-trick in 2015 against Sevilla, making him La Liga's all-time top scorer.

6. The mesmerizing body feint in the 2015 UCL semi-finals against Boateng.

7. Noteworthy goal in the 2015 Copa del Rey against Bilbao.

8. Unforgettable 2017 goal against Madrid, leaving all Madridistas speechless.

9. A standing ovation from opposition fans for his 2019 goal against Betis.

10. Emotional speech after the 2021 Copa America final.

11. 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP