Milei Thanks Messi for 'Enormous Joys,' Calls Scaloni 'Extraordinary Leader'

Argentine President Javier Milei has expressed his gratitude to football icon Lionel Messi for the "enormous joys" he has brought to the nation, while also hailing national team coach Lionel Scaloni as an "extraordinary leader." These sentiments were shared during an interview with Radio Mitre, following Scaloni's public contemplation of his future with the team after their World Cup final defeat.

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A person who has been at the highest level of a discipline for more than twenty years is worthy of admiration. Furthermore, he has brought enormous joy to all Argentines and also to all those who enjoy good football.

"A person who has been at the highest level of a discipline for more than twenty years is worthy of admiration. Furthermore, he has brought enormous joy to all Argentines and also to all those who enjoy good football," Milei stated regarding Messi's illustrious career. The president also lauded Scaloni, describing him as "a superlative person and an extraordinary leader."

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A superlative person and an extraordinary leader.

Scaloni had previously indicated a need for time to decide his future, following Argentina's 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup 2026 final. Milei conveyed his personal wish for Scaloni to "follow what his heart dictates and achieve the happiness and all the achievements he desires in life."

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No one can reproach them for anything, because they have given their all. The result of the final cannot overshadow or tarnish the enormous achievement of this group of players.

The president also took the opportunity to commend the team's performance throughout the tournament, urging for appreciation of their efforts despite the final outcome. "No one can reproach them for anything, because they have given their all. The result of the final cannot overshadow or tarnish the enormous achievement of this group of players," Milei affirmed. He concluded by emphasizing the resilience of Argentines, stating, "Infinitely grateful for the enormous work they have done, and for how high they have raised the value of Argentines and the fact of making it clear that Argentines never give up, not even until the last second. Argentina never gives up."

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Infinitely grateful for the enormous work they have done, and for how high they have raised the value of Argentines and the fact of making it clear that Argentines never give up, not even until the last second. Argentina never gives up.