Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has refused to confirm whether Sunday's 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain will be Lionel Messi's last appearance for the national team.

Speculation has intensified over the Inter Miami captain's international future as Argentina prepare to defend the World Cup title they won in Qatar four years ago. At 39, many believe the final at the New York New Jersey Stadium could mark the end of Messi's remarkable World Cup journey.

However, speaking during his pre-match press conference, Scaloni insisted that only Messi knows what lies ahead.

"Is Sunday going to be Messi's last World Cup match? I don't know, who knows? You'll have to ask him. He never stops surprising us."

The Argentina coach also paid an emotional tribute to his captain, revealing a recent conversation that highlighted the mutual admiration between the pair.

According to Scaloni, Messi told him, "We're pure history," a comment the coach described as deeply moving.

Scaloni, however, turned the praise back on the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.

"The one who's truly history is him, a legend. Hearing him say that fills me with pride. To have the greatest footballer the world has ever seen think that about this group is something truly wonderful."

Messi is one of only three players to feature in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments and has once again played a decisive role in Argentina's run to the final. The veteran forward inspired La Albiceleste into Sunday's showpiece with another influential performance in the semi-final victory over England.

Argentina are chasing history against Spain as they bid to become the first nation in 64 years to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.

Opinion

Whether Sunday proves to be Lionel Messi's final World Cup appearance or not, his legacy has long been secured. Scaloni's reluctance to speculate reflects the unique nature of Messi's career—one that has repeatedly defied expectations and timelines.

For Argentina, the immediate focus is not on farewells but on making history. If Messi can lead La Albiceleste to consecutive World Cup triumphs, it would add another unforgettable chapter to a career already regarded by many as one of football's greatest.