Scaloni pushed for Messi's Argentina farewell

Messi announced his retirement from international football after Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, bringing an end to a glittering career with his country.

However, Messi was called up to Scaloni's latest Argentina squad, and will play one final time against Benin at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires on 7 October (AEST).

"I ​believe that a player like him deserves this. Personally, I did my part ​because I wanted to be at his farewell," Scaloni said.

"Since I don't know if I would be here later, we pushed hard so that he could ​be in this match.

"We knew everything he was going through and ​even so, he put in the desire and effort to want to come and ‌be able ⁠to say goodbye to the people who love him so much.

"If we have to pay tribute, we have to do it at this moment. With him, it will never stop, but later, the magic ​might not be ​the same."

Messi was pivotal to Argentina's first FIFA World Cup success since 1986 in 2022, scoring twice in its penalty shootout win against France after a 3-3 draw after extra-time.

He followed that up with a sensational tournament this summer, scoring eight goals, including his first FIFA World Cup hat-trick against Algeria.

"For me, getting to coach him was the ultimate experience. It was a dream. I told him so, and I'll say it for the rest of my life. There will never be anyone like him," Scaloni added.

"It's very rare for a player like that to come along – not just because of what he does on the pitch, but because of everything he conveys off it. Let's enjoy this.

"After the [2026 FIFA] World Cup he just played, there isn't much more to add. If the award is for the best player, there's no doubt. It's already spoken for, the statistics prove it.

"As long as he's on a football pitch, it's hard to argue that he doesn't deserve it."

With Messi's international future already decided, the same cannot be said for Scaloni, whose contract will run out this December.

Asked if he had received an update on his ​future, ⁠Scaloni said he would meet with Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia in the coming days.

"It is a dream come true, but that doesn't mean I ⁠have to ​cling to the job forever," Scaloni said.

"There are certain conditions we need to discuss with the president, and we'll see if we ​can reach an agreement."