As the countdown to the start of the Copa America 2024 continues, there appears to be some instability within Argentina’s team. Reports have revealed a “short-circuit” between manager Lionel Scaloni and his star player Lionel Messi during the World Cup qualification matches. Reportedly, the manager also told his players to get their act together.

The revelations have come to light by one of the most respected Argentine journalists, Cherquis Bialo. The 83-year-old has disclosed that the alleged conflict arose after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat against Uruguay in the World Cup qualifiers. Small cracks appear in the team, after all. 

What happened between Lionel Messi and Lionel Scaloni?

As reported by LA 100, the experienced journalist shared about a rift that arrived between Scaloni and Messi, after which a private party involving the players of the team was held. He revealed, “It would give the impression that there is a short-circuit between Messi and Scaloni. There was a party held in a country club.” 

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After the defeat, Argentina’s subsequent game was against Brazil. According to Bialo, Scaloni expressed his frustration before the match stating, “We are playing a friendly against the most combative team in the region. Let’s see if we get our act together.” The journalist also mentioned, “There was a little bit of anger. The trip was not so sweet… There were no talks.”

Interestingly, after the match with Brazil, the Argentine manager disclosed his intentions of departing from Argentina following the Copa America tournament. Despite the rumors of a dispute between Lionel Scaloni and Lionel Messi, there is no doubt of their on-field connection. The link-up has been remarkable, even earning praise from a former Argentinian World Cup champion.

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Under Scaloni’s leadership, Messi secured his first international trophy with the Copa America 2021 and continued to excel, winning the 2022 Finalissima and the prestigious World Cup in 2022. Mario Kempes, a former Argentine player, recently recognized the impact the 45-year-old has had on the Inter Miami forward and the Argentina team.

Kempes commended the manager, stating, “He surrounded the best in the world [Lionel Messi] with the best he could have found.” He further added, “Before Scaloni, it was Messi with the Argentina national team. Now it’s not; it’s the national team plus Messi.” With this in mind, Argentinian fans will undoubtedly be hoping for Lionel Scaloni to continue longer with the team.

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