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Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that Lionel Messi has complete authority over when he will retire from football. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the World Cup-winning manager discussed the exceptional mentality that keeps the Inter Miami superstar performing at the highest level, emphasising that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner remains the best due to his endless hunger for success.

Messi in charge of his own retirement

As Argentina prepare to defend their world title, Scaloni opened up about the future of his captain. In an exclusive conversation with Diario Olé, the coach dismissed any suggestions that Messi could soon retire from international duty.

The veteran forward is set for a record sixth World Cup appearance, and Scaloni believes the decision to step away will rest entirely with Messi himself. The coach stated, “He will play as long as he wants to because we already know who he is, and it’s no surprise that he’ll play his sixth World Cup.” Scaloni has complete faith that his leader will know when the right moment to retire comes.

The mindset of an elite champion

Even after winning every major honour available — including four international titles in recent years — the former Barcelona icon still possesses an extraordinary drive to keep competing. Scaloni pointed out that this mental strength is what keeps Messi at the top of the game. Describing how the forward still gets upset over small mistakes during club matches, the manager explained that this relentless pursuit of perfection distinguishes him from others.

“He continues to be the best because he always wants more and proves he wants more,” Scaloni said. This insatiable ambition ensures that the Inter Miami captain never becomes complacent, pushing both himself and his teammates to achieve even greater success, regardless of past achievements.

Balancing fitness through dialogue

As the next World Cup will feature an expanded format, questions have been raised about how Argentina will manage their star player’s workload. Scaloni made it clear that all decisions regarding Messi’s participation are made through mutual understanding, rather than strict physical restrictions. The coach explained that every plan is discussed together, recognising Messi’s immense influence even when he’s not fully fit.

Scaloni elaborated, “Every decision we’ve made has been discussed with him. It makes no sense for me to decide on my own. In his case, and rightly so, I will always talk to him, ask how he’s feeling, and then we’ll decide together. It has to be that way because, even when he’s on the pitch struggling physically, he still gives us so much. Sometimes it’s even better to have him there despite the difficulties because of everything he brings.”

What lies ahead for Argentina?

La Albiceleste are in the final stages of preparation, with friendly matches lined up against Honduras and Iceland. Following these warm-ups, Scaloni’s squad will begin their much-anticipated title defence against Algeria. As the group stage begins, all attention will once again turn to their inspirational captain to see if he can lead Argentina to yet another memorable triumph.