Scaloni, aged 45, has expressed concern over the diminishing “spirit of football” as modern tactics and analysis increasingly dominate the game. Drawing upon Argentina’s captain, Lionel Messi, Scaloni emphasized how tactics can sometimes stifle players’ natural creativity, advocating for a balance that allows individuals to flourish.

In an interview with Marca, he criticized the excessive reliance on contemporary football tactics, lamenting the scarcity of dribblers and citing Messi’s upbringing as an example. Scaloni highlighted the risk of inhibiting young players’ development by overly emphasizing tactical instructions at too early an age, stressing the importance of allowing them to enjoy the game and learn through trial and error.

Scaloni emphasized the significance of enjoyment and freedom in youth football, asserting that excessive correction during formative years can strip away the inherent joy and spontaneity of the sport. He emphasized the need for a more balanced approach that nurtures players’ natural inclinations while gradually introducing tactical concepts as they mature.

Argentina last played in November, securing a 1-0 victory against Brazil. Their upcoming fixture is in the Copa America tournament this summer, where they will face Chile in the opening match of Group A. Messi and his teammates will be eager to defend their title, having clinched the trophy in 2021.

Lionel Messi

Lionel Andrés Messi Cuccittini

Forwarder, Midfielder

Argentina

Age: 37

170 cm

72 kg

Season 2024
Played 9 4 Missed
Minutes 764 84.9 Avg
Goals 10 1.1 Avg
Assist 10 1.1 Avg
Attempt 34 3.8 Avg
Passes 419 46.683.9% AvgSucc
Yellow 0 0.0 Avg
Red 0 0.0 Avg

This season he played in total 6 times for 372 minutes for Major League Soccer.

Lionel Messi scored 1 goal for Inter Miami. He procured two assists. He received no yellow cards and no red cards.

His team is currently 14th in Major League Soccer. In the last match Inter Miami lost 1-0 against Dallas.

Inter Miami performance and stats

Inter Miami

Manager: Gerardo Martino
Rank 1st
Win 8
Draw 3
Loss 2
Goals 35-20
Diff 15

It will be Inter Miami ended the league in the 14th position with 34 points.

In the last 34 games, it has won 9 times, drawn 7 times, and lost 18 times. In its last match, Inter Miami lost 1-0 against Charlotte.​​

It has a negative goal difference after scoring 41 goals and conceding 54.​