Argentina head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has described Lionel Messi as “pure history” and “a legend,” urging football fans to cherish the 39-year-old superstar as he prepares for what could be his final FIFA World Cup appearance.
Scaloni spoke on Friday at the FIFA Fanatics event in New York City, the first fan interaction involving both World Cup finalists ahead of the tournament’s showpiece, where he was joined by Messi and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.
Asked about Messi’s legacy ahead of Sunday’s final, Scaloni paid glowing tribute to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
He said, “He is pure history. A legend. Reaching a final at 39 years of age is unbelievable. We must enjoy him as it happens.
“With Diego Maradona, we miss him. But Messi is still with us. He is the history, he is the legend, and together with this group of people who have brought us these wonderful years, we’ll always remember him.”
Argentina will face Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final as they seek to defend the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
Despite being built around an ageing core led by Messi, Argentina have defied expectations with a series of dramatic performances, culminating in a memorable semi-final victory over England.
