Argentina chief vows to let Messi choose his next chapter

Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia says Lionel Messi will face no pressure from the national team over whether he plays at the 2028 Copa America, leaving the decision entirely in the hands of the Argentina captain.

Messi has not yet revealed his plans for his international future despite a remarkable campaign at the 2026 World Cup. The 39-year-old scored eight goals and provided four assists as Argentina reached the final, where their hopes of retaining the title ended with a painful 1-0 extra-time defeat by Spain.

Speaking to Argentine broadcaster TyC, Tapia said the association would respect whatever decision Messi makes.

“This is entirely his personal decision. He was the symbol of this tournament, just as he has been in every tournament he has played in,” said Tapia.

Messi had also been uncertain about his future after Argentina’s victory at the 2022 World Cup, but he ultimately continued with the national side and produced another outstanding tournament in 2026.

“In 2022, we did not know whether he would play in 2026. He said he was focusing on each match one at a time, and we saw him at his best, if not the best he has ever been,” Tapia added.

“We must be proud of him. I hope he continues to enjoy football, that we can continue to enjoy watching him, and that he makes the decision he feels is right.”

Scaloni future also unresolved

Tapia also expressed concern over the future of Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, whose contract expires at the end of this year.

Scaloni said he would reassess his position after the World Cup final loss to Spain, prompting uncertainty over whether he will remain in charge of the national team.

“My first, second and third plan is Scaloni. I want him to continue, we all want him to continue,” Tapia said.

“I have to respect his decision, and let him think carefully and make the decision he believes is right.”

Tapia acknowledged that the association could not force Scaloni to remain if the manager no longer felt sufficiently motivated or could not see a route to further success.

“I cannot force him to stay if he feels he lacks the necessary motivation or does not see a way to achieve more success,” he said.

Scaloni, 48, is regarded as the most successful manager in Argentina’s history. What began as a temporary appointment in 2018 developed into a golden era for the national team, with three consecutive major international trophies.

Argentina won the Copa America in 2021, the 2022 World Cup and the Copa America in 2024.

Tapia concluded by offering an emotional assessment of the team that has delivered those successes.

“This is the best national team in history. It has brought joy to the whole Argentine people and managed to make people feel they belong to one group,” he said.