The viral video of Lionel Messi addressing the Argentina squad before the World Cup final has sparked speculation about internal conflict within the team.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni dismissed the rumors, stating that the team is united and focused on their next move. However, the video has sparked debate on social media, with some interpreting Messi's words as a response to favoritism claims, while others believe it could be a deeper issue.
The clip shows Messi delivering a pep talk to his teammates as they exit their changing room at MetLife Stadium. 'Come on, guys, calm down. The main thing is that we stay calm,' Messi is heard saying. 'Let's forget everything. Let's just play. Let's just focus on playing, guys.'
Scaloni has maintained that the squad is united, despite the defeat to Spain in the World Cup final. When asked about the video, he responded, 'I don't know anything. I have no idea what you're talking about.'
However, when pressed further on the topic of internal conflict, Scaloni became more animated, stating, 'The important thing is that the guys have given their all, they've shown character with this jersey, and we should focus on that.'
Messi, who scored eight goals in the tournament, has been instrumental in Argentina's success, including comeback victories over Egypt and England. His international future remains uncertain, with Scaloni admitting that the players may be rethinking their futures after the tournament.
One of Messi's teammates, Emiliano Martinez, has also suggested that he is considering his international future, having played a key role in Argentina's World Cup and Copa America successes.
