# Messi alone will decide Argentina future, says AFA chief

2026-08-08T03:16:50+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Lionel Messi alone will decide whether he continues with Argentina for the 2028 Copa America, Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia has said. Tapia told TyC Sports that the federation will not pressure the 39-year-old captain, who scored eight goals and had four assists at the 2026 World Cup. Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in extra time in the final. Tapia also said extending coach Lionel Scaloni's stay is his "first, second and third plan", but he will not force Scaloni to stay if he lacks motivation.

## Coverage

- hindustantimes.com <https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/football/lionel-messi-to-decide-his-own-future-lionel-scaloni-remains-plan-a-afa-president-claudio-tapia-101786123204745.html>
- newindianexpress.com <https://www.newindianexpress.com/sport/football/2026/Aug/08/lionel-messi-alone-will-decide-when-to-retire-argentina-football-chief>

Tags: AFA, Argentina, Copa America, Lionel Messi, Lionel Scaloni, World Cup
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