'Messi Is Only Player Who Coaches Himself'

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has joked that Lionel Messi is the one player who requires no tactical instructions after revealing the simple message he gives his captain before introducing him from the bench.

Scaloni rested the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner for Argentina’s final FIFA World Cup group-stage match against Jordan, with the Albiceleste already well placed to progress.

Messi was introduced during the second half and wasted little time making his mark, scoring Argentina’s third goal in a comfortable 3-1 victory that maintained their impressive momentum heading into the knockout rounds.

Following the match, Scaloni was asked what advice he gave the Inter Miami superstar before sending him on to influence games.

The Argentina manager responded with humour, underscoring the extraordinary football intelligence that has made Messi one of the greatest players in the sport’s history.

“I just tell him, ‘Go and win the game,” Scaloni said with a laugh.

“What else can I tell him? Are you really asking me this question? He’s the only one who doesn’t need any instructions at all.

“Seriously, you’re asking me if I should tell him, ‘Run this way’ or ‘Control the ball like this’? That’s ridiculous.”

Scaloni’s comments reflect the immense trust he places in the 39-year-old captain, whose influence continues to define Argentina’s World Cup campaign despite careful management of his playing time.

Messi has already produced a series of decisive performances during the tournament and remains among the leading contenders for both the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball as Argentina pursue another world title.

With the knockout stages now underway, Scaloni is expected to continue balancing Messi’s minutes to ensure his talisman remains fresh for the biggest matches.