Almost exactly eight years ago, Lionel Messi stood on the pitch at MetLife Stadium, visibly devastated after his team's crushing defeat in the 2016 Copa America final. In a moment that shocked the footballing world, Messi announced his retirement from international football, declaring, “For me, the national team is over. I’ve done all that I can.” At just 29, having led Argentina through three consecutive heart-wrenching summers that included losses in the 2014 World Cup final and the Copa America finals in 2015 and 2016, Messi’s decision seemed final.
However, the tides turned swiftly as Messi reversed his retirement just two months later in August 2016. It was a decision that would eventually see him conquering his earlier disappointments. Overcoming the heartbreak, Messi led Argentina to a resounding victory in the 2021 Copa America, finally breaking his international trophy drought. Soon after, Argentina etched their name once more into the history books by clinching the 2022 World Cup, with Messi rightfully earning his place amongst the all-time greats.
Fast forward to 2024, Messi remains a crucial figure in Argentina’s national squad, one of only three players from the 2016 tournament still gracing the team. “The cups that Chile won, the cups that we won… that is in the past. We are living in the present and this team knows that very well,” Lionel Scaloni, the current head coach, remarked, emphasizing the team's focus on current challenges rather than resting on past laurels. “Each match is a different history and we have to face it as it comes. Previous titles don’t change that.”
Scaloni’s approach is evident as he continues to forge a team that strikes a balance between experience and emerging talent. The squad now includes bright young stars like 26-year-old center back Cristian Romero and the promising 19-year-old Alejandro Garnacho. The defensive line has found stability under Romero and Lisandro Martinez, names now synonymous with Scaloni’s strategic defensive pairing.
In a recent match against Canada, Argentina showcased a robust offensive front with a total of 19 shots, though their performance underwhelmed against their 3.02 expected goals stat. Scaloni identified key areas for improvement, particularly focusing on limiting the opponent’s attack, as evidenced by Canada’s ability to manage 10 shots on Argentina’s goal. “We have a very particular strategy and game plan and the opponent poses difficulties. What we do is try to adjust, try to avoid damage to our team and we will try to find the spaces, given the opponent,” Scaloni explained. “The opponent will set the tone of its attack, and of course, we will be cautious about that and it's valid to do so.”
The attack against Canada was spearheaded by Julian Alvarez, who opened the scoring while starting alongside Messi. Lautaro Martinez added another goal, benefiting from an assist by Alexis Mac Allister, while Messi, proving his enduring brilliance, orchestrated Lautaro’s goal with an assist of his own. Scaloni refrained from delving into nostalgia ahead of the game, stating, “I think that it’s very important to have him here. Everyone’s asking about the future, the past but this is the lovely present… The present is very important. What's in the past is in the past and he is enjoying his birthday. We want him to have a good time.”
Messi's presence continues to offer Argentina both experience and inspiration. As the team moves forward, balancing the weight of history with the demands of the present, it’s clear that this blend of seasoned leadership and youthful dynamism remains their strongest asset. The future of Argentina football looks promising, with a squad ready to tackle new challenges, while still cherishing the profound legacy etched by its most iconic number 10.