Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has disclosed how he persuaded Lionel Messi to return to the national team for a farewell appearance after the forward stepped away from international football.
Scaloni said he believed Messi deserved the opportunity to receive a proper send-off in front of Argentina supporters after his contribution to the national team.
Speaking to reporters, the coach said he personally spoke with Messi about returning, while the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and its president also supported efforts to make the farewell possible.
“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,” Scaloni said.
According to the coach, Messi initially had to weigh several factors before agreeing to return, but he ultimately wanted the opportunity to bid farewell to Argentina supporters.
“We knew everything he was going through, but even so, he wanted to come and say goodbye to his people,” Scaloni said.
Scaloni said he urged Messi not to postpone the occasion because circumstances could change in the future.
“I engaged with him and endeavoured to persuade him that the present moment is optimal, as one cannot predict future developments,” he said.
He also credited the AFA leadership for helping to facilitate the return.
“The AFA and its president also fulfilled their responsibilities. This represents something truly meaningful, and he is deserving of it,” Scaloni added.
Messi had announced his decision to step away from international football following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final.
The loss reportedly weighed heavily on the forward, who also took time to consider his future with the national team while mourning the death of his father.
Scaloni said the farewell match would give Messi the chance to formally say goodbye to Argentina fans and allow supporters to celebrate his contribution to the national team.
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