Scaloni Hails Messi Before Argentina-Spain Clash
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni delivered an emotional tribute to his captain, Lionel Messi, describing him as “pure history” and “a legend” as the Albiceleste gear up for Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain.
Speaking at the FIFA Fanatics event in New York City on Friday, Scaloni urged fans to cherish every moment of watching the 39‑year‑old superstar, who is widely expected to be appearing in his final World Cup. Messi and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez were also present at the gathering.
“He is pure history. A legend. Reaching a final at 39 years of age is unbelievable. We must enjoy him as it happens.”
Scaloni continued, reflecting on the legacy of Diego Maradona while emphasizing Messi’s ongoing influence:
“With Diego Maradona, we miss him. But Messi is still with us. He is the history, he is the legend, and together with this group of people who have brought us these wonderful years, we’ll always remember him.”
Spain Seen as the Toughest Challenge
Despite the praise for Messi, Scaloni warned that defending European champions Spain pose the greatest test his side has faced in the tournament.
“If Spain leaves the hotel, I am already concerned. Once they are on the bus and they leave the hotel, I am concerned. They are a great team. Everything concerns me about Spain.”
He also downplayed the idea that Argentina’s recent final experience would give them an edge, noting that Spain’s players have also competed in major finals such as the Euro and Nations League deciders.
Mentality Forged in Humble Beginnings
Scaloni attributed his squad’s resilience to their upbringing, saying the best asset they possess is having grown up playing football in tough environments.
“The best thing we have is that we’ve grown up in rough places playing ball. Playing soccer and not thinking about what other people say. The pressure stays to the side; it’s not worth worrying about. On Sunday, we need to do what we’ve done since the beginning, just play ball and don’t even think about what could happen.”
Messi echoed those sentiments, recalling how his love for the game was nurtured long before fame arrived.
“We grew up playing football with a lot of passion and with a lot of desire, all the time, wherever — in school, in the street, with little teams in our neighbourhoods. We never thought of pressure. It always felt natural, the act of playing, of competing. This is a team sport; the rival always plays as well, and you can’t always win. But since we were little, I learned that you lose more than you win. That made me grow a lot as a person and player.”
A Touching Moment Between Coaches
Away from the microphones, one of the most poignant moments before the final unfolded when Scaloni embraced Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, at the FIFA Fanatics event. Their connection dates back to 2017, when Scaloni, fresh from retirement, studied for his UEFA Pro coaching licence at the Spanish Football Federation’s academy in Las Rozas, where de la Fuente served as one of his instructors.
Despite their friendship, both coaches made it clear that no favours would be exchanged on the pitch.
“He knows me personally, but he doesn’t know what I’m thinking about football,” Scaloni said with a smile.
“Both of us know how the other plays. Each team tries to attack, enjoy possession and become stronger with the ball. I hope Sunday’s game will be a good show and people will be entertained.”
De la Fuente returned the compliment, stressing mutual respect:
“We are great competitors, and we are happy to face each other. We have huge admiration for each other. Lionel Scaloni and I share many concepts, values and principles that drive our teams.”
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