End of an era? Lionel Messi's presence not a 'necessity' for Argentina anymore, claims Lionel Scaloni

Over the course of 192 appearances for the Albiceleste, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi has recorded 112 goals. He has helped his country to a global title and two Copa America crowns.

Countless performances of the talismanic variety have been put in by the all-time great, but he is preparing to turn 38 on June 24. Argentina are aware that a day will come when Messi is no longer available to them.

They have picked up impressive wins over Uruguay and Brazil during injury-enforced absences for their captain in 2026 World Cup qualifying - with tickets being booked to that tournament - while Messi was only introduced off the bench in a 1-0 win over Chile.

There is no doubt that Argentina remain a better side when Messi is involved, but they are not a one-man team. Scaloni is taking positives from that ahead of a clash with Colombia on Tuesday.

Argentina’s head coach said: “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.”

Messi will continue to provide inspiration for as long as he makes himself available for selection by Argentina. He is expected to form part of their World Cup title defence next summer, but needs to make a decision on his future at club level as his contract at MLS side Inter Miami is yet to be extended through 2026.