Scaloni not surprised by Messi’s World Cup form at 39 - ‘He’s a machine’
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has praised Lionel Messi's physical performance at the 2026 World Cup, noting that the 39-year-old remains a dominant force on the pitch. Despite missing two penalties, Messi has scored eight goals and continues to lead his team as they advance through the tournament.
Why it matters
Messi's continued elite performance at age 39 challenges conventional expectations regarding athletic longevity in professional football.
Lionel Messi of Argentina attends a training session one day ahead of the World Cup quarterfinal match against Switzerland [Kyle Rivas/Getty Images/AFP] Al Jazeera Staff, AFP and Reuters Sat, July 11, 2026 at 5:30 AM UTC · 3 min read Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said he is not surprised by Lionel Messi ’s physical condition at 39, reiterating that he believes the captain will remain the best player in the world for as long as he chooses to keep playing.
Messi has been instrumental in Argentina’s World Cup campaign, scoring eight goals in five matches to sit just behind France ’s Kylian Mbappe – who has played a game more – in the Golden Boot race.
The diminutive forward also inspired a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt in the round of 16, and is now the leading scorer in World Cup history, with 21 goals across his career.
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