Argentina Says a Tearful Thank You to Lionel Messi The decision by Lionel Messi to retire from international football has sparked an overwhelming wave of gratitude and nostalgia across Argentina, with the nation expressing deep affection for the player who led them to World Cup glory in 2022. The emotional farewell has been marked by heartfelt tributes from teammates, fans, and public figures, reflecting the profound impact Messi has had on Argentine football and culture. The outpouring of emotion began immediately after the World Cup final against Spain on July 19, 2022, when Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, broke down in tears during a press conference. Scaloni’s emotional reaction underscored the collective grief of a nation that had endured eight years of intense competition and triumph. Teammates like Cristian Romero and Giovani Lo Celso echoed this sentiment, with Romero stating, “The day no one wanted to arrive has arrived,” and Lo Celso recalling how he had dreamed of playing alongside Messi since childhood. Nico Paz, who grew up idolizing Messi, shared how he had imagined himself playing with the star since he was four years old. Beyond the players, ordinary citizens have also expressed their admiration. On a Buenos Aires street corner, a red telephone was placed with a sign asking, “What would you say to Messi?” Passersby shared deeply personal messages, including a 86-year-old man who said, “You have given me the greatest joys in my life. You will be in my heart until the day I die,” and a young boy who cried upon hearing the news. A well-spoken woman called Messi “an extraordinary being,” while a little girl simply declared, “You’re the best and the greatest.” An old man signed off with “bye, son,” capturing the universal sense of loss.#lionel_messi #lionel_scaloni #nico_paz #cristian_romero #giovani_lo_celso
Argentina's Squad Set for World Cup Quarterfinals: Gonzalo Montiel to Replace Nahuel Molina Lionel Scaloni, the head coach of the Argentine national team, is expected to make a single tactical adjustment for the upcoming quarterfinal match against Switzerland in the 2026 World Cup. According to journalist Germán García Grova, the only change in the starting lineup will involve the right-back position, with Gonzalo Montiel from River Plate set to replace Nahuel Molina. This decision comes after Argentina’s dramatic comeback victory over Egypt in the round of 16, which reignited hopes of securing a second consecutive World Cup title. The tactical shift is rooted in Scaloni’s assessment of Montiel’s unique ability to anticipate second chances within the penalty area. During training sessions, the coach worked with both Montiel and Molina, but the latter’s potential to capitalize on defensive errors and create opportunities for teammates tipped the balance in favor of Montiel. The Argentine squad’s formation for the match against Switzerland is expected to feature Emiliano Martínez in goal, with Montiel partnering Cristian Romero at center-back, supported by Lisandro Martínez and Nicolás Tagliafico on the wings. Midfielders Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Leandro Paredes will anchor the attack, alongside Alexis Mac Allister, Lionel Messi, and either Julián Álvarez or Lautaro Martínez up front. Argentina’s path to the quarterfinals was marked by a thrilling 3-2 comeback against Egypt, a result that underscored the team’s resilience and tactical adaptability. Scaloni’s strategy has focused on maintaining the core of the squad that secured the victory while fine-tuning specific roles to address weaknesses.#lionel_scaloni #emiliano_martinez #gonzalo_montiel #nahuel_molina #cristian_romero
