Argentina: Lionel Scaloni reveals how he convinced Messi to return

In a rare revelation, Lionel Scaloni has opened up about the behind-the-scenes story of Lionel Messi's return to the national team after the 2018 World Cup. This testimony highlights La Pulga's deep bond with the Albiceleste and his unique influence within the Argentine squad.

Just days ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Scaloni shed light on one of the pivotal moments in Argentina's recent history: Lionel Messi's return to international duty after stepping away following the 2018 World Cup. In an interview with Diario Olé, the Albiceleste manager shared the inside story of the operation to win Messi back.

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"I called him with Aimar to tell him we were going to take temporary charge of the national team, and he replied: 'Are you crazy?'"

Scaloni continues:

"Then he wished us good luck. We knew he wouldn't come back during that period since we were only there for a short interim."

Once their position at the helm of the national team was confirmed, the Argentine staff renewed their efforts.

"We called him again to tell him we wanted him to return. And he always replied: 'I don't know, I'm not completely sure.'"

But the Argentine coach knew which strings to pull.

"In the end, he loves the Argentina national team with all his heart. We knew that if we touched that sensitive chord in him, he would come back, and that's exactly what happened."

Scaloni also spoke about his captain's unique influence:

"We tried to make him comfortable and happy, especially since the team was being rebuilt with many young players who didn't know him yet."

Before concluding:

"What he generates is very hard to explain. I could talk about it for an hour, but it's something you have to experience. What he brings when he enters a locker room or a room is simply exceptional."

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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