The secret meeting between Messi and Scaloni before the World Cup: What did the Argentina coach talk about with the '10'

Lionel Scaloni is navigating the road to the 2026 World Cup with a masterful blend of serenity, respect for history, and meticulous long-term planning. The world-champion coach understands perfectly that the monumental challenge ahead cannot be solved simply by resting on the laurels of the title won in Qatar. Instead, it requires surgical decision-making, timely dialogues, and a sharp reading of the current reality facing the Argentine National Team.

Recently, the strategist opened up about his ongoing dialogue with Lionel Messi, the complex task of narrowing down the final World Cup roster, and the cultural foundations upon which he continues to build this historic cycle.

Following the World Cup draw—which placed the Albiceleste in a group alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan—Scaloni made it clear that there is zero margin for relaxation. On paper, many fans and pundits see Argentina as the overwhelming favorite to sweep the group. However, for Scaloni, the greatest risk a defending champion faces is the psychological trap of overconfidence.

He believes that while the path to the title might look simpler from the outside, the internal execution must be even more rigorous than before. "The World Cup is competed from the very first minute of the first match, regardless of the opponent or the context," Scaloni emphasized. His obsession with detail remains as intense as it was during the 2021 Copa América or the 2022 World Cup, proving that the hunger of the "Scaloneta" has not been satiated by success.

A significant portion of the tactical analysis surrounding the current squad involves Thiago Almada, a player whose recent career moves have sparked heated debate among fans. Scaloni was direct and pragmatic when addressing the midfielder's situation. For the coach, the specific club or league where a player resides is secondary to one non-negotiable factor: consistency and playing time.

Scaloni argues that pure talent requires a highly competitive context to stay sharp. He noted that the only way to truly determine if a footballer is ready for a high-pressure tournament like the World Cup is to see them in a rhythm of constant action. Whether in Europe, South America, or the MLS, Scaloni's message to his players is clear: "If you want to be on the plane to North America, you must be a protagonist on the pitch."

Looking back, Scaloni also took a moment to reflect on the institutional pillars of his success. He specifically highlighted the unwavering support of Claudio "Chiqui" Tapia, the president of the AFA. Scaloni recalled the crucial period following the 2019 Copa América, a time when his project was still under heavy scrutiny.

According to the coach, that institutional backing was transcendental. It allowed a developing project the necessary time and "oxygen" to mature and eventually bear fruit. In an era of football where results are usually demanded instantly, Scaloni credits this rare patience as the secret ingredient behind Argentina’s current dominance.

Finally, the coach underscored that the National Team is about much more than just trophies; it is about identity and conduct. For Scaloni, the way the players conduct themselves off the field, the way they compete with integrity, and the values they transmit to the youth are just as important as the scoreline.

"Success is only sustained with work and persistence until the end of the world," he expressed. As the journey toward June 2026 officially picks up speed, Scaloni remains the calm eye of the storm. He knows that every decision will be examined under a microscope, but his confidence is anchored in a group of players who have learned how to win without losing their hunger—and a coaching staff that understands that defending a throne is often harder than seizing one.