After winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup, there are questions about Lionel Messi’s future with Argentina. This uncertainty isn’t about his play but about his personal career decisions. Lionel Scaloni, the head coach, hopes to have him in the 2026 World Cup, but Messi’s participation is still unknown. Scaloni reached out to fans ahead of the upcoming qualifying matches for support.
“Some laugh when I say ‘we look for a little melancholy’. The same was true with Fideo: let’s enjoy him while we have him. Whatever happens, happens. Now is the time to enjoy him. Don’t wait for an announcement. He’s crucial for soccer, not just for Argentinians. It’s essential to appreciate him now,” Scaloni said on TNT Sports Argentina.
With uncertainty surrounding him, Lionel Messi may be nearing his final matches with the Argentina team against Venezuela and Ecuador. He aims to end his international career on a high note and could become the top scorer in the CONMEBOL 2026 qualifiers, currently trailing Luis Diaz by just one goal.
Lionel Messi’s Legacy with Argentina
Throughout his career, Lionel Messi faced challenges with fans of the Argentine national team, facing criticism at times, especially after the 2014 World Cup when questions arose about his impact in crucial moments. However, he has since established himself as a legendary figure in Argentine soccer.
Lionel Messi of Argentina during a World Cup Qualifier match.
Messi has solidified his status by becoming the all-time leading scorer for the Argentine national team, with an impressive 112 goals in 193 games. This surpasses the previous record held by Gabriel Batistuta, who scored 55 goals in 78 appearances. Messi also holds the record for the most assists in the national team’s history, with 58 assists.
In addition to his statistics, Messi has achieved significant successes with Argentina. He led the team to World Cup victory in 2022 and celebrated wins in two Copa America tournaments. He also guided the team to a Finalissima title and won a gold medal at the 2008 Olympic Games.