Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine soccer player, is being celebrated as a "once-in-history" star that the sport may never witness again. The 39-year-old is preparing to play in his third career World Cup final on Sunday against Spain, a milestone that has drawn significant attention.
Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, expressed uncertainty about whether this will be Messi's final World Cup appearance, stating Friday, "I haven’t the foggiest idea, to be honest." Scaloni, who was the only player to pass to Messi in his international debut in 2005, referred to Messi as "pure history" and "a legend."
"Being able to reach a final at 39 years of age, I think it’s something unbelievable, and that is why I said we must enjoy him," Scaloni added.
Messi's career trajectory has defied expectations. After Argentina's World Cup triumph 3 ½ years ago, it was widely anticipated that he might retire from international play. He could have chosen to play in Major League Soccer as a purely ceremonial tour, accumulating wealth and adoration in Argentina. Instead, Messi has continued to perform at a high level, leading Inter Miami to championships and commercial success, as well as guiding Argentina to another Copa America title in addition to their World Cup final appearance.