The debate about who is the biggest Argentine football player of all time –Lionel Messi or Diego Maradona—As have long been one of the most passionate discussions in the country. Generations of fans have weighed in, with different views shaped by personal memories, cultural importance and career statistics. Now, Argentina’s current head coach Lionel Scaloni has shared his own perspective on the matter.
While Messi keeps the edge in goal, assists and trophies at both the club and international level, Critics often pointed to his lack of success with the national team as the decisive factor. But with back-to-back Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024, followed by a World Cup triumph 2022, Messi has silenced many doubts and strengthened his case as the greatest of all time.
Maradona, in the meantime, remains an icon not only for his performances on the pitch, but for the deep cultural impact he left on Argentina. He is known for his raw talent and unmatched charisma and continues to have a special place in many hearts. Despite this, when he was asked by Spanish journalist Siro López to weigh in, Scaloni did not hesitate. “I go with Leo“He said.
“I choose Leo because I see him and I know what he is“Returned the coach.”That said, it is pointless to compare them – we should just enjoy them. I am convinced that both could have played in the 70s, 80s, 90s and now, for When someone is good they are just fine“Scaloni pronounced.
Scaloni continued to reflect on their differences: “Not everyone is the same. In terms of football, they are both geniuses. In terms of personality they are different. But in their own way, they are both leaders. Leo shows it differently. I can give you lots of examples: in Copa América 2021, against Colombia, when he had a muscle problem, he entered the dressing room, was massaged by physio and went out to play as if nothing was wrong. “
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Interesting, Scaloni had the rare opportunity to share a dressing room with both players. He was a teammate in Maradona at Newell’s old boys and played with Messi in Argentina Nation team 2006. Drawing on these experiences, the coach in the end with the star from Rosario.
Scaloni on what it’s like to coach Messi
After training Argentina’s U-20 squad, Scaloni was surprisingly named head coach for the senior national team 2018—The first major role. Despite skepticism at that time, he continued to achieve what many experienced coaches could not: guide Messi to international glory.
When asked what it is like to train Messi, Scaloni was clear: “It’s easy with winners. When you have players who have competed since they were five years old and all they know is how to win it is easy. Winning is in their DNA. He doesn’t like to lose – not even in training – and it’s basic. “
“When you give him an instruction he always understands it clearly“Spent Scaloni regarding Messi’s commitment to the team’s tactical system.”The idea is to treat him as one of the team, to know that he is not just one of the team. He is your ace in the sleeve“He concluded.
