"If Messi was born in Brazil, he would have played for the national team until the age of 45" - Luiz Felipe Scolari on Argentine superstar
Former Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari made a startling claim that Lionel Messi would play until the age of 45 for the national team if he was born in Brazil. The 2002 World Cup-winning manager believes that the Argentine would have been better taken care of by his rivals.
Emiliano Nunia from Super Deportivo Radio spoke to Scolari who claimed that if the Argentine was born in Brazil, he would have a longer playing career with the international team.
"If Messi was born in Brazil, he would have played for the national team until the age of 45," the 75-year-old said.
Scolari believes that Lionel Messi will star at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament is scheduled to be played in North America with the USA, Mexico, and Canada jointly hosting the event.
He praised Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni's understanding of the diminutive attacker's role, crediting him for the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner possibly featuring at the next edition of the World Cup.
"In the 2026 World Cup, he will continue to annoy his opponents. I imagine Messi in the next World Cup because of the way he behaves and thanks to how Scaloni understands Messi's role," Scolari said.
The Argentina icon is yet to confirm his participation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, having dodged the question multiple times previously.
"I wouldn't like to be coach" - Messi on life after retirement
Lionel Messi is currently playing club football with Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami. The 37-year-old superstar is widely tipped to follow in the footsteps of former England international and Inter Miami owner David Beckham by retiring in the US.
He, however, made his stance clear about taking up coaching after retiring as a player. Speaking to 433, the forward said he would not like to be a coach after his playing career.
"I wouldn't like to be a coach. But, I'm not clear on what I'll be. I only think about playing and having fun," the former Barcelona and PSG star said.
He also spoke about the legacy he leaves behind, admitting that he is lucky to have the career he had, playing for Barcelona and fulfilling his dream of winning a World Cup.
"Let people remember me however they want. I'm grateful for the career I have had and fulfilled my dream of winning a World Cup, which I fought so hard for and cost so much. I was lucky to win with Barcelona and with the National Team, and I have a beautiful family. I'm grateful to God," the 37-year-old said.
The Argentine led Inter Miami to Supporters' Shield glory last month and is aiming to help the club win its first MLS Cup.