VIDEO: Messi won’t start against Jordan, says Scaloni

Argentina's football coach, Lionel Scaloni, has announced that superstar captain Lionel Messi will not start in their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Jordan. This significant disclosure came during a pre-match press conference, adding a unique moment to the event.

Scaloni's decision to reveal Messi's benching was a personal gesture towards 91-year-old journalist Enrique Macaya Márquez, who is covering his 18th World Cup. The coach stated he would not have shared this information with any other reporter but made an exception due to his long-standing respect for Márquez. "I will answer your question because it's you Leo is going to start on the bench," Scaloni told the veteran journalist, drawing applause from those present.

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It’s a pleasure to be able to answer your question. We’ve known each other for a long time. When I played in Argentina, I never stopped watching him. I’ll answer your question because it’s you Leo is going to start on the bench.

The move to rest Messi is reportedly a strategic decision to manage his workload, especially considering his ongoing fitness concerns during the tournament. Argentina, a strong contender following their 2022 World Cup triumph, aims to progress further, and careful player rotation is seen as crucial. Messi is expected to feature as a substitute later in the game.

The press conference moment was widely shared and praised on social media. Users like #THE_SCORELINE_X called it an "absolutely beautiful story," highlighting the "absolute respect for a true legend of football journalism." Another user, #yeamyth, described it as a "wholesome moment," appreciating Scaloni's "incredible answer." #BlaugranaLens1 noted it as "A beautiful moment between two icons of Argentine football."

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I would never reply to any journalist on this topic right now… but because it is coming from you, I will tell you Messi will not start. I respect you too much, I am so proud to see you here.