Argentina will not pressure Lionel Messi into playing at the 2028 Copa America, with Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia insisting the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will decide his own international future.
Messi, 39, has yet to announce his plans after inspiring Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, scoring eight goals and providing four assists during the tournament.
“It’s entirely his decision,” Tapia said. “He has to feel like playing. In 2022, we didn’t know if he would be at the 2026 World Cup, but he took it one match at a time and showed his best level once again.”
The Inter Miami forward has enjoyed an extraordinary international career, making a record 207 appearances for Argentina while scoring 125 goals.
He has won two Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup, as well as being named player of the tournament in Qatar.
“We should be proud of him,” Tapia added. “May he continue enjoying football, and may he make the decision he believes is right.”
Scaloni to be offered new contract
Tapia also revealed he is determined to keep Lionel Scaloni as Argentina head coach beyond the end of his current contract, which expires later this year.
Scaloni admitted after Argentina’s extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final that he would take time to consider his future.
“My plan A, plan B and plan C is Scaloni,” Tapia said. “I want him to stay and we all want him to stay, but I have to respect whatever decision he makes.”
Scaloni has become Argentina’s most successful coach since taking charge in 2018, guiding the national team to Copa América triumphs in 2021 and 2024, as well as World Cup glory in 2022.
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