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Messi alone will decide Argentina future, says AFA chief
The Story in Brief
The Story in Brief
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.
The Indian Opinion
The usual chatter about when a legend should step aside is missing the point. Messi just played a World Cup with eight goals and four assists at 39; his performances, not his age, should guide the talk. Fans and pundits alike need to stop projecting timelines. The only question that matters is what Messi says when he chooses to speak.
Sources (2): hindustantimes.com, newindianexpress.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above. Methodology and corrections.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
Ashin Xavier: interesting
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IO Repro: Repro test after fix 2 Oct. Safe to trash.