Scaloni Pledges To Lead Argentina Beyond Copa America, Updates On Messi

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has reaffirmed his commitment to leading the national team as they prepare for the Copa America. Scaloni, who led Argentina to World Cup victory in Qatar last year, had previously considered stepping down. However, he confirmed his intention to stay until the Argentine Football Association (AFA) President Claudio Tapia decides otherwise.

Scaloni's decision to remain in charge was reported earlier this year, with the coach agreeing to lead the team through the upcoming tournament in the United States. Argentina will begin their campaign against Canada on June 20. Speaking ahead of friendlies against Ecuador and Guatemala, Scaloni expressed his renewed energy and dedication to the role.

"I was not having a good year and I felt it was time to stop the ball," Scaloni said, reflecting on his earlier thoughts of resignation. "Today I'm here with all my energy, which, to be honest, was not the case in November. As long as the president of the AFA wants me to be here, I'll be here."

Scaloni also provided updates on key players, including Lionel Messi and Paulo Dybala. Messi has been in excellent form, scoring 12 goals in his first 12 MLS games with Inter Miami. This performance is his best start since scoring 17 goals in his first 12 league games for Barcelona in the 2012-13 season.

"The good thing is that Messi has had continuity in his team, especially after his injury," Scaloni said. "It's important that he gets more minutes. We see him at full fitness. He will join the squad for training tomorrow."

Regarding Dybala's exclusion from the preliminary 29-man squad, Scaloni explained that it was a difficult decision influenced by positional needs and Dybala's recent injury history. Despite limited appearances due to minor injuries, Dybala scored 13 goals for Roma last season.

"We have a special affection for him, but we always say that the team comes first," Scaloni stated. "Given the circumstances and the fact that we had problems in some positions, we decided not to include him. We know what he has given us. With all the pain in the world, this is the decision we have taken."

Argentina's preparations for Copa America include matches against Ecuador on June 9 at Soldier Field in Chicago and Guatemala on June 14 at Commanders Field in Washington. These friendlies are crucial as Argentina aims to defend their Copa America title.

The upcoming fixtures will test Argentina's readiness as they look to build momentum ahead of their title defence. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Scaloni's squad takes shape.