Argentina men’s senior team coach Lionel Scaloni and Messi – the national team captain share a special bond not just because they share the same first name but because of the leadership qualities they exhibit on and off the pitch respectively.
Lionel Scaloni and Messi played crucial roles as coach and captain as Argentina won the Qatar 2022 World Cup after defeating France 4-2 on penalties. The match had earlier ended in a pulsating 3-3 draw which saw Kylian Mbappe bagged a hattrick while Messi scored a brace following Angel Di Maria opener.
Messi v Maradona
One of the biggest arguments in football is the comparison between late Argentina legend Diego Maradona and the current flagbearer of Argentine football, Lionel Messi. The comparison is not just borne out of the talent but achievements especially with the national team.
Before, Lionel Messi won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, football fans have always criticised the former Barcelona star for his inability to replicate his club success for the national team even though he won the 2008 Olympic gold medal with Argentina.
However, since Messi won the world cup, that debate or comparison between him and Maradona appears to have died a natural death especially among Argentinian fans back home. While some still revere Maradona as the greatest footballer to come out of the country, others now have superior argument over the late 1986 world cup winner.
Lionel Scaloni gives verdict on Messi v Maradona debate
Comparisons between Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona are unavoidable in Argentina, and not even the national team’s head coach can escape them. Lionel Scaloni, on the other hand, has stated that he would choose his current star over the 1986 World Cup winner. In an interview with ‘El Partidazo’ on Cadena COPE, the coach discussed his tenure as Argentina’s coach and stated his preference for Messi over Maradona.
If I have to pick one [of Messi and Maradona], I’ll take Leo, as I have something special with him,” said Scaloni.
“He’s the best of all time, although Maradona was fantastic as well.
“Coaching Messi isn’t difficult. Technically, you cannot correct him, but you can with certain situations relating to pressing or you can explain an attacking method to him.
“In terms or pressing, winning the ball and when the heat is on, he’s number one.”
Lionel Scaloni and Messi’s personal relationship might have influenced his choice over Maradona. Regardless, the world cup winning coach who faced a lot of criticisms over his appointment, is entitled to his choice. Lionel Mesii and Maradona also share a bond having played for the late world cup winner at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
