Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has paid a glowing tribute to captain Lionel Messi, describing the football icon as “pure history” as the reigning world champions prepare for a blockbuster FIFA World Cup final against Spain.
With speculation growing that Sunday’s final could mark Messi’s last appearance on football’s biggest stage, Scaloni urged supporters around the world to appreciate every moment they still have with a player whose career has transformed the sport for nearly two decades.
Speaking during Argentina’s pre match press conference in New York, the World Cup winning coach reflected on Messi’s extraordinary influence on the national team, insisting that no words can fully capture the legacy of the eight time Ballon d’Or winner.
“He is pure history,” Scaloni said of his captain.
“We have to enjoy him while we still can because players like Messi only come around once in a lifetime.”
Messi, now 39, has once again silenced any doubts about his ability to compete at the highest level. Despite his age, the Argentine captain has delivered another exceptional World Cup campaign, inspiring La Albiceleste with decisive goals, assists and moments of brilliance as they chase consecutive FIFA World Cup titles.
Argentina reached the final after an unforgettable semifinal victory over England, coming from behind late in the match to book a place against an exciting Spanish side led by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Scaloni admitted that reaching another World Cup final had exceeded many expectations, especially given the challenges his squad has overcome throughout the tournament.
The coach praised his players for their determination, resilience and belief, saying Argentina’s success has been built on unity rather than individual talent alone. Even so, he acknowledged that Messi remains the team’s emotional leader and a constant source of inspiration.
According to Scaloni, the veteran forward continues to influence the squad both on and off the pitch through his professionalism, calmness and relentless desire to win.
While much of the attention has centred on Messi’s future with the national team, Scaloni refused to speculate on whether the final will be the captain’s farewell in Argentina colours.
Instead, he stressed that the entire squad is focused solely on defeating Spain and defending the title they won four years ago.
“The important thing is to enjoy him and the moment. What happens afterwards will be his decision,” Scaloni said.
The Argentina coach also dismissed suggestions that his side holds a psychological advantage because of their experience in major finals.
He described Spain as one of the strongest teams in international football, praising their tactical discipline, technical quality and ability to dominate possession.
Scaloni believes the final will be decided by small details, with both teams possessing enough quality to lift the trophy.
Spain arrive in the final full of confidence after eliminating France in the semifinals, with Yamal continuing his remarkable rise as one of world football’s brightest young stars.
The clash also presents a symbolic meeting between generations, with Messi aiming to end his World Cup journey on the highest possible note while Yamal hopes to begin a new era by leading Spain to global glory.
Messi himself has remained calm ahead of the occasion, insisting Argentina will give everything to retain their crown.
The captain has repeatedly emphasised that the team’s success has come through collective effort and hard work, rejecting suggestions that their achievements have been handed to them.
For Scaloni, however, the occasion extends beyond the pursuit of another trophy.
The former defender believes the football world is witnessing the final chapters of one of the greatest careers the game has ever produced. Whether or not Messi decides to continue after this tournament, the Argentina manager insists his legacy is already beyond comparison.
As Argentina prepare to face Spain in one of the most anticipated World Cup finals in recent memory, Scaloni hopes his players can deliver one final triumph for the man he believes has rewritten football history.
Victory would not only secure Argentina’s second consecutive World Cup title but also provide a fitting celebration of Messi’s extraordinary international career, one that has inspired millions of fans and established him as one of the greatest players ever to grace the game.
