Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni said it will be a privilege if Lionel Messi decides to play in the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Messi is yet to confirm his participation in the quadrennial event. 

Earlier, Messi had said the 2022 World Cup would be his last major tournament with Albiceleste, but he continued playing for the national team as he wanted to be part of the champion team. 

“It would be a privilege if Leo [Messi] decides to play in the World Cup,” Scaloni said after Argentina’s 5-0 win over Zambia on Tuesday.

“We all want him to enjoy it and we’ll do everything we can to help him feel at ease. He wants the same as us; he’s more relaxed now because he’s already won a World Cup. His desire to be there and share in the experience is there; we’ll see what he decides to do and we’ll support him.”

Messi provided an assist to Julian Alvarez in the fourth minute against Zambia, whereas he also found the back of the net in the 43rd minute. It was the 116th international goal and 902nd overall in his career.

“He could reach 1,000 goals,” Scaloni said of Messi. “We’ll have to see how much longer he plays.”

Scaloni admitted it is going to be a tough World Cup for them.

“It will be a tough World Cup, a very difficult one,” he said. “That’s why it will be crucial for everyone to be in good physical and mental shape.

“What lies ahead at the World Cup is going to be incredibly tough; we need to prepare the players. It’s very difficult to replace certain players — legends of the game — who gave so much for us at the World Cup and the Copa América.”

Argentina will begin its World Cup campaign against Algeria on 15th June.