Angel Di Maria, the Argentine national team legend, has ended the debate about the possibility of Lionel Messi, the current 'Albiceleste' captain, retiring, after many reports confirmed that the match against Spain in the 2026 World Cup final was the last for the former Barcelona magician.

Messi took part in Argentina's 1-0 loss to Spain in the final of the America's World Cup, failing to retain the title after winning it in the 2022 edition in Qatar.

Di Maria said in statements to TNT Sports: 'Yes, Leo must continue for as long as he wants. I believe he can continue for many more years.'

Also read.. a meeting cuts vacation.. the secret of Ronaldo's surprise appearance at Al-Nassr camp. And he added: 'At 39 years of age, he has proven that he is still one of the best, even the best in the history of football, and I don't think there is a ceiling to what he can offer.'

Regarding the future of Argentina coach Scaloni, he said: 'He is the leader of this Scaloni era and this team (the current period), and I hope he continues. I think he is building a great generation of young players, and that is in the interest of the national team.'

Di Maria concluded his remarks saying: 'The decision is of course up to him; he knows what he wants. But as an Argentine, I hope he continues his mission with the national team.'