Messi and Cristiano: Two Exemplary Careers

Whenever Lionel Messi is mentioned, Cristiano Ronaldo’s name inevitably comes up as well. This was made clear by Lionel Scaloni, coach of the Argentina national team, who while reflecting on what could be Messi’s last official match in Argentina, also took a moment to value the longevity of the Portuguese star.

“It’s evident that at his age and the level he is still playing at, if he hadn’t taken care of himself the way he did and didn’t have that gift, he wouldn’t be making the difference he still makes. That’s how great players are — the same with Cristiano. They are guys who today remain at the top because they built careers worthy of their talent,” highlighted the Albiceleste coach.

With these words, Scaloni placed both players in the same praise, making it clear that their greatness goes beyond jerseys or past rivalries in LaLiga.

The Call to Enjoy Messi

Amid the anticipation of Messi’s imminent international retirement, Scaloni sent a clear message to the fans: “Let’s enjoy him while we have him. Whatever has to happen, will happen.”

The coach avoided giving details on whether the 2026 World Cup will be Messi’s final appearance, but made it clear that the captain has every right to decide when to hang up his boots: “It can’t be easy, just as it wasn’t easy for me to stop playing. He earned the right to decide when to do it, and he will have all our support.”

A Date Marked on the Calendar

On September 4, Argentina will host Venezuela in a CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier. While the match carries little sporting weight given Argentina’s comfortable lead in the table, it could go down in history as Messi’s last official match in Argentina wearing the national team jersey.

A farewell full of emotion, transcending football itself, and serving as a living tribute to one of the greatest legends the sport has ever seen.