Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that captain Lionel Messi will not be in the starting lineup for his side’s 2026 FIFA World Cup clash against Jordan, revealing that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will begin the match on the bench.
Scaloni made the revelation during his pre-match press conference after receiving a question from legendary 91-year-old Argentine journalist Enrique Macaya Márquez, who is covering his 18th FIFA World Cup.
The coach said he would not normally disclose such information before a game but chose to do so out of respect for the veteran journalist.
He said:
“It’s a pleasure to be able to answer your question. We’ve known each other for a long time. When I played in Argentina, I never stopped watching him. I’ll answer your question because it’s you. Leo is going to start on the bench.
“I would never reply to any journalist on this topic right now… but because it is coming from you, I will tell you Messi will not start.”
He added:
“I respect you too much, I am so proud to see you here.”
After his response, Scaloni walked over to embrace Macaya Márquez and posed for photographs with him, drawing applause from those present at the press conference.
The heartwarming exchange quickly went viral on social media, with many football fans praising the respect shown by the Argentina coach toward one of the sport’s most celebrated journalists.
Messi is expected to feature in the second half as Scaloni carefully manages the veteran forward’s workload during Argentina’s World Cup campaign.
