Argentina manager, Lionel Scaloni, has disclosed how he convinced Lionel Messi to return to the national team for a farewell match following his retirement from international football.
He maintained that a player of such legendary stature deserved an opportunity for supporters to pay tribute to him.
Speaking to journalists, Scaloni indicated that he played an instrumental role in persuading Messi and received support from the president of the Argentina Football Association, AFA.
He expressed satisfaction with the 39-year-old’s decision to participate in the farewell match.
He stated: “I think a player like him deserves this. Personally, I did my part. We pushed for him to be able to play in this match.
“We knew everything he was going through, but even so, he wanted to come and say goodbye to his people. I think if we’re going to pay tribute to him, it has to be now.
“I engaged with him and endeavoured to persuade him that the present moment is optimal, as one cannot predict future developments.
“The AFA and its president also fulfilled their responsibilities. This represents something truly meaningful, and he is deserving of it.”
Lionel Messi declared his withdrawal from international football following the FIFA World Cup final, where Argentina suffered defeat to Spain.
The loss profoundly affected him, and he deliberated before making his announcement public, as he was simultaneously grieving the passing of his father.
Retirement: How I convinced Messi to return to play for Argentina – Scaloni