Lionel Messi's Argentina future not 'relevant' to Lionel Scaloni as national team boss clarifies his own position heading into 2026 World Cup

Questions continue to be asked of how much longer the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will play on for. Messi is tied to terms at MLS side Inter Miami for the 2025 campaign, but no decision has been made on what happens after that.

There is confidence in Florida that Messi will agree to trigger a 12-month extension, taking him through the next World Cup finals in 2026. Defending champions Argentina are hoping to have their talismanic captain available for that tournament.

No pressure is being put on Messi, though, to make definitive statements on his plans, with Scaloni telling DSports Radio: “Now is not the time to talk about it. The truth is that I don't see it as relevant. He will know what is best for his career and we must let him decide in his own time.”

Scaloni is only working on a deal with the Albiceleste until the summer of 2026 and said when asked about his own future: “The day I leave the Argentine national team will be the saddest day of my life. For now I'm fine, this is a dream place. I'm not thinking about that right now.”

Scaloni will be keeping a close eye on Messi, who is back in pre-season action with Inter Miami. He is set to turn 38 in June, but is showing no sign of slowing down – as the reigning MVP of MLS – and continues to add to record-breaking tallies of 191 caps and 112 goals for his country.