Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni opens door to contract extension and preps for Messi farewell

Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni stated on Thursday that next month's friendly against Benin in Buenos Aires will provide Lionel Messi with the opportunity to bid farewell to the sport in his own manner. The coach acknowledged that it would be difficult not to shed tears during that day, emphasizing the privilege of witnessing the occasion.

Messi, an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, announced his international retirement at the end of August when he turned 39. Despite this, the coach included him in the squad for the farewell match, acknowledging his desire for one final appearance in front of Argentina's fans. Scaloni, who led Argentina to a third World Cup title in 2022, expressed his commitment to ensuring Messi's participation in the match, stating that he and his team had done everything possible to accommodate the request.

The coach also commented on Messi's eligibility for another Ballon d'Or, asserting that if the award is for the best player, Messi deserves to win it. Argentina will commence a three-match friendly series against Bolivia, Burkina Faso, and Benin in September and October, with Messi participating in all three games. Scaloni did not address his future as Argentina's coach, stating that there is no new information regarding his potential departure at the end of the year.