As the Copa America 2024 approaches, Argentina's national team manager, Lionel Scaloni, has a heartfelt message for fans worldwide: savor the moments with Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria while you can. This tournament could mark the final occasion these two football legends play together on the international stage.
Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria are ready for another international tournament together 🥹
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) June 18, 2024
What a duo đź’™
(📸: @CopaAmerica) pic.twitter.com/rf7FYlipBK
Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria have been teammates of the Argentine national team since their debut in 2008. Over the years, they have formed a formidable partnership, contributing significantly to Argentina's football success. Their synergy on the field has been a cornerstone of the team's strategies and victories.
Messi and Di Maria were instrumental in Argentina’s triumph at the 2021 Copa America, a victory that ended the country's 28-year trophy drought. The duo's exceptional performances helped secure a 1-0 victory against Brazil in the final. Messi's leadership and Di Maria's decisive goal were the highlights of this memorable win.
Their success continued at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where Argentina clinched the coveted title. The tournament showcased Messi's brilliance and Di Maria's tactical prowess, solidifying their status as football icons.
Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is often regarded as the greatest football player in history. His career is marked by an array of records and accolades, and he is set to achieve another milestone at the Copa America 2024. When Messi steps onto the field for Argentina’s first group game on Friday, June 21, he will make his 35th appearance in the tournament, breaking the record for the most appearances by any player in Copa America's history.
“We managed to have a process in the national team. The balance, beyond the titles, is that we have enjoyed a lot. It is a pleasure to see them train and play, how they give themselves. I am not worried about the future of Messi and Di Maria. It doesn’t make much sense to think about when they are gone. Let’s enjoy them now, we will see what happens later,” Scaloni said in a press conference.
At 36, Messi's future in international football remains uncertain. While he has not announced a retirement date, speculation about his participation in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada continues. Fans and football game enthusiasts hope to see him grace the pitch a little longer, but as Scaloni advises, it is best to relish the present moments with this football maestro.
Angel Di Maria has announced that the 2024 Copa America will be his last tournament representing Argentina. This decision marks the end of an illustrious international career filled with memorable performances and critical contributions to the team’s success. Di Maria has made 23 appearances in the Copa America so far, and his presence will undoubtedly be missed in future competitions.
In a recent press conference, Lionel Scaloni reflected on the significance of having Messi and Di Maria in the team. “We managed to have a process in the national team. The balance, beyond the titles, is that we have enjoyed a lot. It is a pleasure to see them train and play, how they give themselves. I am not worried about the future of Messi and Di Maria. It doesn’t make much sense to think about when they are gone. Let’s enjoy them now, we will see what happens later,” Scaloni remarked.
As defending champions, Argentina enters the Copa America 2024 with high expectations. They are drawn in Group A, alongside Peru, Chile, and Canada. The team's opening match against Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium is eagerly anticipated, not only for the competition but also as a celebration of Messi's record-breaking appearance.
Argentina’s schedule in Group A is as follows:
Each match in this group stage will be crucial for Argentina as they aim to retain their title. The team's performance will be closely watched, especially with the added emotional context of it potentially being the last tournament for Di Maria and perhaps Messi.
Messi and Di Maria’s legacy extends beyond their statistical achievements and trophies. Their commitment, passion, and performances have inspired countless fans and budding footballers around the world. They exemplify dedication and excellence, and their impact on the sport will be felt for generations.
As the Copa America 2024 unfolds, fans are encouraged to soak in every moment of Messi and Di Maria's magic on the field. Their journey has been one of remarkable highs and a few lows, but it is their resilience and brilliance that will be remembered.
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