Will 2024 Copa América Final Be Lionel Messi’s Last Game for Argentina?

WHAT HAPPENED?

Messi hinted at retirement after scoring in his country’s 2-0 win over Canada in the Copa America semi-final. He has said that he is fighting his “last battles” for Argentina, and has also claimed that he is one of the “old guys” in the squad, as they once again target major silverware, having won the World Cup in 2022.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Scaloni insists he will not try to impact Messi’s decision – or that of Angel Di Maria’s, who has announced his own intention to retire from international football – before the final against either Uruguay or Colombia. However, while he has insisted that the Inter Miami star can pull the curtain down on his career himself, he has extended an open invite for Messi to remain with the team whether he is retired or not.

WHAT SCALONI SAID

Scaloni was asked about Di Maria and told reporters: “You know how I think: We wait and see how he plays.

“We won’t retire him early before the game, then the tears will start and everyone, his family, will get melancholic. We’ll see later if we convince him or not convince him, but for now, we let him play.

“It’s the same case for Messi. We leave them calm from our part; we won’t be the ones to close the door on them. He can be with us until he wants, and even after he retires, he can join me if I’m still coach. And if not, I’ll take him where I go. He would be a great help.”

WHAT NEXT?

Argentina will take on the winners of the second semi-final this weekend. They are attempting to retain the Copa America title, having beaten Brazil 1-0 in the 2021 final.