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18 July 2026

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confessed that he is unsure whether the upcoming World Cup final will mark Lionel Messi’s last appearance for the national team.

The 39-year-old forward is set to earn his 207th cap when Argentina take on Spain at the MetLife Stadium in New York on Sunday.

Messi, featuring in his sixth World Cup and seeking a second title as captain, has not confirmed if he plans to continue playing for Argentina beyond this tournament.

Discussing the uncertainty surrounding Messi’s future, Scaloni said that the team’s record goal-scorer continues to defy expectations, making it difficult to predict his next step.

“What do I know?” Scaloni remarked. “Ask him, I don’t have the foggiest idea. He keeps surprising us.”

Scaloni hailed Messi as the greatest footballer of all time and admitted that it is remarkable to see him competing in another World Cup final at the age of 39.

He added: “He is pure history, a legend. He is the best footballer the world has ever seen, and reaching a final at 39 is simply incredible. That’s why I say we must cherish every moment with him. We still miss Diego Maradona, but Messi is still here with us, so we must enjoy him.”

Argentina have triumphed in all seven of their matches at this World Cup, yet Scaloni believes they must deliver their absolute best to overcome Spain, the reigning European champions who are unbeaten in their last 37 games.

Scaloni, who shares a close friendship with Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente, acknowledged the threat his counterpart’s side poses.

He explained: “We prepared for this game the same way we do for every match. We are hopeful things will go our way. We have analysed the opponent carefully to determine how we can impose our game. We will need to show the best version of ourselves to win.”

“I am concerned because they are a fantastic team, a great national side, and they have had a wonderful run under Luis.”