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Scaloni on Messi's World Cup: "That's more of a question for him"

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has stated that Lionel Messi's participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup is ultimately the player's own decision, dependent on his attitude and physical readiness. Scaloni expressed his hope that Messi will be there for the sake of football, but emphasized the veteran has earned the right to decide in peace. Argentina will begin its World Cup title defense in Group J against Algeria on June 16. Messi could make his final home appearance for Argentina in a friendly against Zambia on April 1.

Key Points: Scaloni: Messi's World Cup Participation Up to Him

  • Scaloni says Messi's WC role is his decision
  • Decision hinges on Messi's attitude and physical condition
  • Manager hopes Messi plays for football's sake
  • Argentina's title defense begins June 16 vs Algeria
2 min read

"That's more of a question to him": Argentina manager Scaloni on Messi's FIFA WC participation

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni says Lionel Messi's World Cup role depends on the star's attitude and physical condition, leaving the decision to the veteran.

"That is more of a question for him - Lionel Scaloni"

Buenos Aires Marc, h 28

With the FIFA World Cup just over two months away, there are still doubts over World Cup-winning icon Lionel Messi featuring in Argentina's title defence, with the manager Lionel Scaloni saying it is up to the veteran's "attitude and physical condition" if he plays in the marquee tournament.

Messi took part in Argentina's home pre-FIFA World Cup friendly against Mauritania but was unable to score after coming off the bench during the match. However, his side still managed a 2-1 win. Argentina will be entering as world champions for the WC taking place from June 11 to July 19. However, the presence of Messi remains the biggest question mark.

On being asked about Messi's participation in the WC, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni said during a presser, as quoted by Goal.com, "That is more of a question for him". The 47-year-old also said that he would be doing everything possible to "make sure he is there."

"I believe, for the sake of football, he must be there. It is not for me to decide. It is up to him, his attitude and his physical condition," he added.

The manager continued that not only the Argentina fans, but the entire football world wants to see him play the tournament. However, Messi has "earned the right to make his decision in peace."

"We are in no hurry. We know that whatever he decides, it will be the best for the team and for him," he said.

Messi is Argentina's most decorated footballer statistically, with 115 goals and 196 caps. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Messi finally achieved the pinnacle by capturing the biggest prize in the sport, having previously fallen short against Germany in 2014.

In the upcoming edition, Argentina will be facing Austria, Jordan and Algeria, with whom they are placed in Group J. Their campaign opener will be against Algeria at Kansas City on June 16.

Before their campaign, Argentina is playing two friendlies, one against Mauritania (completed) and one against Zambia on April 1. The clash against Zambia could be Messi's final appearance in Argentina colours on home soil.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Honestly, it's time to build for the future. Messi is a legend, no doubt. But Argentina needs to show they can win without him too. Relying on one 36-year-old player, however great, is a risky strategy. Scaloni should be more assertive.
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Rohit P
The man won them the World Cup after so many years of heartbreak! Let him retire on his own terms, yaar. If he feels he can contribute, he will play. If not, he deserves a peaceful exit. We should just be grateful for the memories he's given us.
S
Sarah B
From a sporting perspective, his presence alone lifts the entire team. The young players learn so much just by having him around. Even if he only plays 60 minutes a game, his experience is invaluable for a title defence.
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Vikram M
It's interesting how the manager is putting the ball entirely in Messi's court. Shows the respect he commands. In our cricket team, you rarely see this with a senior player—the decision is usually made by the selectors or captain. Different culture, I guess.
K
Kavya N
The entire football world wants to see him! For the sake of the sport, he should be there. It's like Sachin's last World Cup for us—an emotional moment for fans globally. Hoping he makes the right choice for himself and gives us one more magical tournament. 🤞

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