Almost exactly eight years have passed since Lionel Messi stood at MetLife Stadium, grappling with the aftermath of Argentina’s 2016 Copa America final loss to Chile. The heartbreak was compounded by Messi’s shocking post-game announcement: a decision to retire from international football. At 29, Messi had already established himself as the focal point of Argentina’s national team, but another defeat on the grand stage seemed unbearable.
That defeat marked the third consecutive summer of despair for Messi and Argentina. They had fallen short at the 2014 World Cup to Germany and again in the 2015 Copa America to Chile. However, Messi’s retirement was short-lived. By August 2016, he reversed his decision, reigniting hope for Argentina’s future.
Fast forward to today, and Messi has dramatically changed the narrative. He finally broke the trophy drought by leading Argentina to the 2021 Copa America title and culminating in an illustrious 2022 World Cup victory. These achievements have solidified his legacy, placing him among the all-time greats of the sport.
Remarkably, Messi remains a crucial part of Argentina’s squad heading into 2024. He is one of only three players from the 2016 tournament who are still on the roster, testament to his enduring elite-level capabilities. Joining him are other key players such as 26-year-old center-back Cristian Romero and the promising 19-year-old Alejandro Garnacho.
Analyzing the Current Squad
The Argentine team recently showcased their potential in a match against Canada, managing 19 shots and accumulating a 3.02 expected goals tally. However, they underperformed in converting these opportunities. They also allowed Canada to take 10 shots, a statistic that head coach Lionel Scaloni believes must be addressed.
Scaloni highlighted key areas for improvement, particularly focusing on limiting their opponent’s attacking opportunities. “We have a very particular strategy and game plan and the opponent poses difficulties,” Scaloni explained. “What we do is try to adjust, try to avoid damage to our team and we will try to find the spaces, given the opponent, but the opponent will set the tone of its attack and of course, we will be cautious about that and it's valid to do so.”
Solidifying the defense has been a priority, and the center-back pairing of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez has become Scaloni’s preferred choice. Their chemistry and dependability provide a strong backbone for the team’s defense.
Attack and Midfield Dynamics
Offensively, Julian Alvarez demonstrated his potential by opening the scoring against Canada. Lautaro Martinez added a second goal, assisted by the versatile Alexis Mac Allister. Messi, ever the playmaker, showcased his continued brilliance by assisting on Lautaro Martinez’s goal, proving he remains integral to Argentina’s attacking prowess.
Reflecting on both past successes and future challenges, Scaloni emphasized the importance of focusing on the present. “The cups that Chile won, the cups that we won … that is in the past. We are living in the present and this team knows that very well. Each match is a different history and we have to face it as it comes. Previous titles don’t change that,” he said.
Messi’s Lasting Influence
Messi’s influence extends beyond his on-field exploits. As Scaloni pointed out, the presence of the legendary player is a motivational boon for the team. “I think that it’s very important to have him here. Everyone’s asking about the future, the past but this is the lovely present… The present is very important. What's in the past is in the past and he is enjoying his birthday. We want him to have a good time.”
Messi’s journey from the despair of 2016 to the triumphs of 2021 and 2022 serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience and redemption. As he continues to don the national colors, the Argentine squad is poised to build on their recent successes and aim for continued glory. The team’s blend of seasoned veterans and young talents holds promise for a bright future, and with Messi leading the charge, anything seems possible.