Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni responded to questions surrounding Lionel Messi's future with the national team ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup final with Spain on Sunday, July 19.

La Albiceleste will look to become the first team in 64 years to win back-to-back FIFA World Cups, and many believe it could be Messi's final match in Argentina's colours regardless of the game's outcome.

Speaking with journalists ahead of the final at the New York New Jersey Stadium, Scaloni expressed his admiration for Messi. He said (via All about Argentina on X):

When asked if Sunday's final will be Messi's final World Cup game, Scaloni replied:

Lionel Messi is one of the only three players to have played at six different FIFA World Cup editions. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner led Argentina to glory four years ago in Qatar, and at 39, the current edition is expected to be his swansong.

Former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta has opined that Lionel Messi would win a record-extending ninth Ballon d'Or if Argentina pip Spain to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The former midfielder also noted that Lamine Yamal remains a strong contender for the award should Spain go ahead to win a second World Cup.

Messi has recorded eight goals and four assists at the ongoing tournament in North America. Yamal, on the other hand, has registered only one goal in seven games so far.

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