Apr 1, 2026, 07:36 AM ETOpen Extended Reactions
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni is showering Lionel Messi with praise while remaining hopeful the football icon will play at the World Cup.
The Inter Miami CF captain has yet to confirm if he will lead the Albiceleste when they attempt to defend the title this summer.
"It would be a privilege if Leo [Messi] decides to play in the World Cup," Scaloni said after Argentina's 5-0 win over Zambia on Tuesday.
"We all want him to enjoy it and we'll do everything we can to help him feel at ease. He wants the same as us; he's more relaxed now because he's already won a World Cup. His desire to be there and share in the experience is there; we'll see what he decides to do and we'll support him."
Messi, 38, had a starring role in Tuesday's game at La Bombonera, where he set up Julián Álvarez for his team's opener before getting on the scoresheet himself.
It was the 116th international goal and 902nd overall in his career.
"He could reach 1,000 goals," Scaloni said of Messi. "We'll have to see how much longer he plays."
Despite Argentina following their 2022 World Cup success by winning the 2024 Copa América and dominating in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying, Scaloni has warned fans to lower expectations.
– Messi leads Argentina to 5-0 victory in final home World Cup tune-up
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"It will be a tough World Cup, a very difficult one," he said. "That's why it will be crucial for everyone to be in good physical and mental shape.
"What lies ahead at the World Cup is going to be incredibly tough; we need to prepare the players. It's very difficult to replace certain players — legends of the game — who gave so much for us at the World Cup and the Copa América."
A rising star hoping to make Argentina's World Cup squad is Strasbourg midfielder Valentín Barco. Barco, 21, scored his first goal for the national team in his second appearance on Tuesday.
"It is a dream," the Brighton midfielder said.
"Getting playing time with the national team, in an elite midfield, all of them world champions, it's a source of pride for me."
Regarding his chances of making Scaloni's final squad, Barco said:
"I take each day as it comes; I try to do my best for the club, which, at the end of the day, is what gets you here. It's the best national team in the world and the toughest squad to break into."
