End of an era? Lionel Messi's presence not a 'necessity' for Argentina anymore, claims Lionel Scaloni

Lionel Scaloni claims the presence of Lionel Messi is no longer a “necessity” in order for World Cup winners Argentina to enjoy success.

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• All-time great preparing to turn 38
• Remains a talismanic presence for now
• Future looks bright for the Albiceleste

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Over the course of 192 appearances for the Albiceleste, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi has recorded 112 goals. He has helped his country to a global title and two Copa America crowns.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Countless performances of the talismanic variety have been put in by the all-time great, but he is preparing to turn 38 on June 24. Argentina are aware that a day will come when Messi is no longer available to them.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  They have picked up impressive wins over Uruguay and Brazil during injury-enforced absences for their captain in 2026 World Cup qualifying – with tickets being booked to that tournament – while Messi was only introduced off the bench in a 1-0 win over Chile.

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  WHAT LIONEL SCALONI SAID

  There is no doubt that Argentina remain a better side when Messi is involved, but they are not a one-man team. Scaloni is taking positives from that ahead of a clash with Colombia on Tuesday.

  Argentina’s head coach said: “The team is now in a moment where it can play in the same way with Leo or without Leo, which used to be more complex in the past as we had to change some players. But now we don't have this necessity and the team works in the same way, that's good.”