Lionel Scaloni Quashes Rift Rumors With Lionel Messi & Discusses Future at Argentina

A lot has been happening in the world of South American soccer. After an intense phase of 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Argentina embarks on a journey to the Copa America 2024. The team and supporters have recently been worried about the coach, Lionel Scaloni, having a rift with captain Lionel Messi. But the bossman has come out to deny any such claims.

The Scaloni-Messi relationship has always been calm. The coach has always been known to support the Argentinian star and calls him the most important person on the team. However, recently, it was rumored that Lionel Messi was unhappy with the coach regarding his recent retirement hint in the media.

Lionel Scaloni clarifies his relationship with Lionel Messi

Lionel Scaloni’s words during the World Cup qualifiers led to speculations about an internal rift. However, quashing rumors, Scaloni revealed that he is still the coach and has a good relationship with the captain. He said, “I am here because I am still the coach, but I’m still thinking about my decision. I said after the Brazil game that it is a moment to think, and I am still in that instance.”

“I spoke to Messi after the Brazil game; he is the captain, and I have a great relationship with him”. The Argentina coach, after the controversial Brazil game last month, said that the team could need a different coach.

Hinting at retirement, Scaloni felt that the energy levels of the team were so high that it may be hard for him to match them. However, he now says that he’s still contemplating his role.

Lionel Scaloni joined the national team after the 2018 World Cup debacle. He led them to win last year’s World Cup and earlier year’s Copa America. However, the manager has now said that all his relationships are good but that he has to think about the national team first.

Argentina to play the first game of Copa America 2024

The Albiceleste are under the leadership of Lionel Scaloni, as Lionel Messi and Co will head to the 2024 Copa America. Messi earlier said that he could decide his course with the national team after the tournament. After today’s fixture draw, it was decided that Argentina will kick off the tournament on June 20, 2024.

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Scaloni, on the other end, will try to retain the championship, which has only gotten bigger with North American teams also joining in. Since the 2026 World Cup will also be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, it will be a boost considering the captain will be plying his trade in Miami itself until 2025.

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