Scaloni Confirms Messi's Approval Required for Argentina Decisions Before World Cup

Argentina is preparing to defend its world title in the most prestigious national team tournament on the planet. With only six days remaining before the kickoff in Mexico, the United States, and Canada, anticipation has reached its peak.

Placed in Group 10 alongside Austria, Algeria, and Jordan, Argentina's head coach Lionel Scaloni granted an interview to the newspaper "Olé" before the World Cup began. In it, he analyzed the pivotal role of the team's star player, Lionel Messi.

Scaloni spoke candidly about managing a team of such caliber at the World Cup, acknowledging, "No one likes to be substituted, not even Messi." He firmly stated that he does not make any decisions in the locker room without first consulting Messi: "I do not make any decision without asking Messi first."

The coach considers it fair and logical for all matters to pass through the team captain. He elaborated, "It is not logical for me to say I am the only person responsible here; we always talk with Messi about every decision we make. I ask him for his opinion, about his physical and mental condition, and we always try to reach an agreement that serves the group's interest."

Scaloni concluded by praising the contributions of the veteran 38-year-old star to the national team, defending his continued role as a starter: "I believe things should proceed this way; even if he sometimes faces difficulties on the pitch, he contributes a lot. It is always better for Messi to be on the field because he can innovate and make a difference at any moment."

This edition of the World Cup carries a unique emotional significance, serving as a "farewell World Cup" and marking the end of the modern golden era of football. It is expected to be the final World Cup appearance for historic names such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, both making their sixth appearances in World Cup history, along with Brazilian star Neymar. This lends the tournament a special charm and exceptional appeal unlikely to be repeated.