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Argentina’s national team coach, Lionel Scaloni (right), has openly stated that Lionel Messi is the ultimate decision-maker within the squad.

Although Scaloni officially holds the coaching position, he admitted that all major decisions within the Argentina national team ultimately depend on Messi.

As both a megastar and team captain, Messi holds the highest status within the La Albiceleste camp. However, in football’s traditional hierarchy, the coach still ranks above the captain when it comes to authority over team matters.

The coach plays a crucial role in shaping the team’s performance on the pitch through tactical decisions. Beyond that, he also has the privilege to choose which players will feature in each match.

In principle, a captain can even be benched or left out entirely if the coach decides not to play him. This privilege, too, belongs to Lionel Scaloni, whose reputation soared after guiding Argentina to victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Thanks to his achievements with the national team, Scaloni holds the prerogative to determine his matchday lineup. Yet, the 48-year-old coach has revealed that he rarely exercises that authority independently — instead, he often defers to Messi’s judgment.

Scaloni disclosed this in his latest interview, as reported by A Bola. The former Argentina U-20 coach explained that he discusses practically everything concerning the squad with Messi.

Speaking candidly, Scaloni admitted that he does not see himself as the person solely responsible for the team, placing that responsibility instead on “La Pulga.”

In his view, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner deserves that level of influence, considering his immense experience and legacy on the field.

Scaloni also emphasized that he will always start Messi and will not substitute him during matches unless something unexpected happens.

“We always discuss every decision we make with him (Messi). There’s no point pretending that I’m the one in charge,” Scaloni said.

“Given his track record, I think it’s only fair. I always talk to him, ask how he’s feeling, and we try to reach a consensus.”

“I believe that’s how it should be, because even when he’s on the pitch facing difficulties, he still gives us so much.”

“That’s why, most of the time, it’s better to have him on the field — for everything he can create,” he concluded.

Looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi is set to play in his sixth edition of the tournament. The 38-year-old superstar previously participated in the 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions.

Of those five tournaments, his best achievement came in 2022, when he led Argentina to World Cup glory. In that same edition, Messi was named the tournament’s best player, repeating his MVP feat from 2014.