Surprise! Messi joins Argentina's coaching staff

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi is preparing for his highly anticipated appearance with his national team in a friendly match against Benin scheduled for October 6th at the Monumental Stadium. This match is expected to be a celebratory occasion marking the end of his international career, as announced by the Argentine Football Association. While Argentine fans eagerly await the farewell of their captain, a new proposal has emerged that could keep Messi connected to the national team even after his international retirement. This proposal suggests he join the coaching staff and work alongside coach Lionel Scaloni. Argentine journalist Rodolfo Cingolani put forward the idea, advocating for leveraging Messi's experience and presence within the national team, even while he continues playing for Inter Miami in the United States. The proposal proposes that Messi participate in the coaching staff's work during important matches, without needing to attend every game. Cingolani explained that Messi's presence on the coaching staff could be an asset to the players, believing that the continued involvement of the "Albiceleste" captain would be beneficial for the team. He emphasized, however, that the final decision rests with the player himself. Messi announced his retirement from international football at the end of August, bringing his illustrious career with the national team to a close after years of achievements, most notably leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup. He is set to play in the match against Benin, which is seen as a farewell for the captain, after being called up to the Argentina squad by coach Scaloni during the current international break. The idea of ​​Messi joining the coaching staff comes at a time when Scaloni's future with the national team remains uncertain, as his contract expires on December 31st, with no official announcement yet regarding his future.