Scaloni noted that he has always known the 39-year-old Inter Miami forward would play until he chose to stop.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has applauded his captain, Lionel Messi, labelling the Inter Miami star as the best football player ever to set foot on a pitch.
He hailed the 39-year-old striker during his post-match interview after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final on Sunday.
La Roja dominated all aspects of the encounter but needed a goal in the second half of extra time to secure a deserved victory. Ferran Torres smashed home a knockdown from Nico Williams to seal the win for the reigning European champions.
Despite staying on the pitch throughout the encounter, Messi was unable to impact the game, with Argentina failing to register a single shot on target.
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Speaking after the match, Scaloni praised the longevity of the former Barcelona striker, who is expected to have donned the Argentina jersey at a World Cup for the final time.
He further noted that he had always known Messi would play until he chose to stop.
“He is 39 years old; it is unbelievable,” Scaloni said.
He added: “It was always crystal clear to me that he would play until he chose to stop, and that everyone would support him. I hope everyone is proud of him, because he is the best football player ever to set foot on a pitch.”
