Argentina head coach, Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that captain Lionel Messi will not be in the starting lineup for his side’s 2026 FIFA World Cup clash against Jordan, revealing the decision during an emotional exchange with veteran journalist Enrique Macaya Márquez.

The confirmation came at Argentina’s pre-match press conference after 91-year-old Macaya Márquez, who is covering his 18th FIFA World Cup, asked Scaloni about Messi’s availability. Reports from the Argentine media and international football sources, including a video shared by Fabrizio Romano on Saturday, captured the moment.

Scaloni said he would not normally disclose such information before a match but made an exception because of his long-standing respect for the veteran journalist.

“It’s a pleasure to answer your question. We’ve known each other for a long time. When I played in Argentina, I never stopped watching you. I’ll answer because it’s you. Leo is going to start on the bench,” the Argentina coach said.

He added that Messi is expected to feature in the second half.

“I would never reply to any journalist on this topic right now, but because it is coming from you, I will tell you Messi will not start,” Scaloni said, before expressing his admiration for Macaya Márquez.

“I respect you too much. I am so proud to see you here,” he added.

The emotional exchange concluded with Scaloni embracing the veteran journalist and posing for photographs with him, drawing applause from those in attendance.

The moment quickly gained attention on social media, with football fans and commentators praising the gesture. The Scoreline X described it as “an absolutely beautiful story from the World Cup press conference,” while another user, identified as yeamyth, called it “a wholesome moment” that celebrated “a true legend” of football journalism. BlaugranaLens1 also described the exchange as “a beautiful moment between two icons of Argentine football.”

Messi, who has been carefully managed throughout the tournament due to fitness concerns, is expected to make an appearance from the bench as Scaloni seeks to balance the veteran forward’s workload.

The reigning world champions remain among the favourites to progress in the competition, with supporters now awaiting the official starting lineup ahead of the crucial encounter with Jordan.