Messi has left Argentina an incomparable legacy – Scaloni

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has admitted that the national team will struggle to replace Lionel Messi, describing the captain’s influence as “incomparable” as he prepares for what is expected to be his final appearance for the Albiceleste.

Messi is set to feature in Argentina’s farewell match against Benin at the sold-out Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, bringing another chapter of his international career closer to an end.

Scaloni, who has shared in some of the most successful years in Argentina’s history with Messi, said the forward’s influence extends beyond his performances on the pitch.

The pair have celebrated major honours together, including Copa America titles and Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph.

According to ESPN, Scaloni said Messi’s presence had created standards within the squad that would be difficult to replicate.

“Messi leaves behind something unequalled,” Scaloni said.

“We have to keep playing, but the feeling of having him on the pitch is unique. I’ve never seen anyone else convey what he does on a football field, and that is what we’re going to miss.”

Scaloni also highlighted Messi’s professionalism away from matches, pointing to the example he sets for his teammates through his preparation and work ethic.

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“Only nostalgia remains now that he won’t be there. He is an incredible example. The first to arrive, the last to leave, how he takes care of himself, how he faces each game,” he said.

“You can see he is a phenomenon just by how he plays, but he has things behind him that his teammates see, and he is the best example there can be.”

Scaloni added that Messi had one final game remaining with Argentina but had already left a lasting mark on the national team.

“He has left – or is leaving, because he has one more game – something incomparable,” the coach said.

Messi’s international career has produced a record 125 goals in 207 senior appearances for Argentina, alongside major titles including the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Copa America.

As Argentina prepares for a future without its captain, Scaloni acknowledged that the challenge will extend beyond replacing Messi’s goals and creativity.

The next generation will also inherit a national team culture shaped in part by the standards and achievements of one of the most decorated players in international football.

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