Why Lionel Messi’s desperation to play when injured is unselfish – with Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni saluting ‘best in history’ after second Copa America triumph

The reigning world champions claimed another continental crown when battling their way past Colombia in the 2024 final. They got over the line with talismanic captain Messi stuck on the bench suffering an ankle problem. Lautaro Martinez netted the only goal of the game in extra-time.

Messi left the field in tears, before eventually getting his hands on another trophy, with Scaloni telling reporters of how the all-time great continues to set the standard for those around him: “He has something that every footballer should have. He is the best in history and he doesn't want to leave. I prefer those players and not those who come off at the first opportunity. His team-mates see that. He wants to play not because he is selfish, but because he wants to win alongside his team-mates and not leave them behind, even in those conditions.”

Scaloni has now helped Messi and Co to back-to-back Copa wins and a global title at the 2022 World Cup. He has faced questions of his future along the way, but said when asked where he stands at present: “I had a bad time last year, I wasn't in good condition. I said that because there was a stalemate [in contract talks], for a few months. The day I have a problem, I'll say it. Today I'm fine, I've recovered all that and we hope to continue on this path. The national team demands a lot of energy, I think it's important to be honest. For now I have two more years on my contract, I should tell the president (Claudio Tapia) to renew my contract for 15 and I'll sign. After that, I have to complete them!. At some point there will be a cut off.”

Argentina now have another Finalissima to ready themselves for, which will see them face newly-crowned European champions Spain. World Cup qualifying action is next on the agenda, though, with Chile and Colombia set to be tackled in September.