We don’t need Messi to play well – Argentina coach, Scaloni

Lionel Scaloni, the head coach of Argentina, recently stated that Lionel Messi is no longer essential for the team to perform well.

Despite scoring 112 goals in 192 appearances for the Albiceleste, the Ballon d’Or winner has aided in securing one World Cup and two Copa America trophies for the South American nation.

However, with Messi set to turn 38 on June 24, Scaloni is already planning for a future without their star player.

“The team is now in a moment where it can play in the same way with Leo or without Leo, which used to be more complex in the past as we had to change some players.

“But now we don’t have this necessity and the team works in the same way, that’s good,” Scaloni said.

Argentina have defeated Uruguay and Brazil without Messi as they booked their place in the 2026 World Cup.