Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni has revealed the one thing that is required for Lionel Messi to play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Aged 35, there are some questions over whether or not Messi will take part in the Albiceleste's title defence in North America in 2026 as he will be 39 years old by the time that tournament gets into full swing.
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A few of his compatriots have revealed that they hope their captain will once again be there to lead them, including controversial goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
"For me, he can play until he is 50. He looks really sharp and he looks so good," the 2022 FIFA World Cup Golden Glove winner said in December, per the Daily Mail.
"He makes things look easy – it's the hardest thing to do. To understand how well he hits the ball is something. He puts the ball there and looks at you and hits the ball top corner, if he misses he hits the post, or crossbar.
"That left foot. He is small, but so strong."
Speaking at a gala in Italy recently, Argentina boss Scaloni named one condition for the Paris Saint-Germain star to be present at the showpiece in the United States, Mexico, and Canada in almost three-and-a-half-years' time.
"Being in the next World Cup will be Leo's decision; if his body can take it for me, he will be there," the 44-year-old tactician said, according to ESPN Colombia..
The tactician further explained just how much it meant to lift the prestigious prize.
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"Behind our title, there was a communion of intentions between the fans, the staff and the players, something emotional that made sense of belonging for this unique shirt even stronger," Scaloni added.
"Then, having a player like Messi was, and is, obviously, an advantage. As a former teammate, training him is beautiful.
"I see how the other players look at him and follow him. He's the best."
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