'We need to enjoy him' - Lionel Messi’s potential final World Cup qualifier in Argentina leaves Lionel Scaloni in tears

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni delivered an emotional news conference on the eve of what could be Lionel Messi’s final World Cup qualifier on home soil. 

Scaloni, who has known Messi since their playing days, was moved to tears while reflecting on their journey together. When a reporter became visibly emotional, Scaloni tried to lighten the moment.

“Are you crying? That wasn’t my intention,” he said, only for the journalist to reply: “You gave me the greatest joy of my life.”

The exchange left the Argentina coach with watery eyes and a trembling voice as he tried to put into words what Messi has meant to him.

“I played alongside him, and just passing him the ball was special," he said. "Being at a World Cup with him, and seeing him lift the trophy, is something truly moving. Over time, we’ll all realize even more what it meant. Tomorrow will be beautiful and emotional. Surely it won’t be his last game in Argentina - we’ll make sure he has another if he wants it, because he deserves that.”

The Albiceleste host Venezuela Thursday in CONMEBOL qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a match already carrying the weight of history.

Scaloni urged fans and teammates to savor every moment with the Argentina captain. 

“To understand it, you have to be in this position. The most important thing is that today he’s here, and we have to enjoy him. I’m the first one who enjoys every day of coaching him,” he said.

Messi is currently at 193 appearances for Argentina and has an astonishing 112 goals for the national team. He has won four trophies with The Albiceleste, including the World Cup, two Copa Americas, and one Finalissima. 

The coach confirmed Messi will start against Venezuela, saying, “Of course he plays - how could he not?” 

Scaloni also left the door open for the No. 10 to feature in Argentina’s second match of the window, away to Ecuador, depending on how he feels after the Venezuela match.

Messi’s family and close friends are expected to attend what could be a grand farewell for the Inter Miami star. The occasion promises to be more than just another qualifier.