Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni expressed his views on the eternal rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of their potential last dance at the World Cup. The two icons have defined modern football for nearly two decades, and even now, as they edge towards the twilight of their glittering careers, their rivalry remains compelling as ever.
Scaloni praises Messi and Ronaldo equallyCoach urges fans to enjoy Messiās final yearsArgentina face Venezuela as rivalry storyline buildsFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! š¢š±WHAT HAPPENED?
Scaloni has now added his voice to the debate, hailing both men as extraordinary examples of professionalism, longevity, and unrelenting excellence. Ahead of Argentinaās upcoming international fixtures, the World Cup-winning manager stressed that Messi and Ronaldo must be appreciated for what they are, rare talents who dedicated their lives to staying at the very top.
Advertisementsocial gfx/ Getty ImagesWHAT SCALONI SAID
Scaloni was asked about Messiās current form with Argentina and Inter Miami, and he offered a blunt butĀ admiring assessment.
āItās evident that at his age and playing at the level he is, if he hadnāt taken such good care of himself and didnāt have that gift, he wouldnāt still be making the difference he makes today," he said. "Thatās how the greats are – and the same goes for Cristiano. They are players who remain at the top because they built careers consistent with their talent."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Of course, the looming shadow in every conversation about Messi today is his eventual retirement. Scaloni chose his words carefully, refusing to pin down dates or make bold predictions. But he did hint that Argentinaās fans should savour every chance they get to see their captain in action.
āLetās enjoy him while we have him. Whatever has to happen, will happen,ā the coach said. "It canāt be easy, just like it wasnāt easy for me to stop playing. We have to let him decide. He has earned the right to choose when, and he will have our full support."
Getty/GOALWHAT NEXT FOR MESSI & RONALDO?
Messi, still the heartbeat of the side, will once again lead the charge when Argentina host Venezuela on Thursday at Buenos Airesā legendary Estadio Monumental before travelling to Ecuador for their second game on September 9. Meanwhile, Ronaldo and Portugal are also in action, facing Armenia on September 6 and Hungary three days later.
