Lionel Messi Never Ceases To Amaze – Says Argentina Lionel Scaloni

Lionel Scaloni has witnessed countless magical moments from Lionel Messi over the years, but the Argentina manager expressed on Tuesday that even at 37, his captain continues to astonish him.

Messi, who was making just his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, scored his 10th international hat-trick as Argentina beat Bolivia 6-0 in a World Cup qualifier.

The record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner stated after the match that he would continue playing as long as he could perform to his standards, while Scaloni expressed his hope that he would remain on the pitch for years to come.

“It never ceases to amaze,” Scaloni told reporters. “At one point I sit down with (assistant coach) Pablo Aimar and tell him that this is wonderful.

“To be able to be on the bench and see the things he does? The team is with him and what I ask him to do is to play as long as he can.”

Despite missing a few players through injury and suspension, Scaloni said he could not be more proud of his squad.

Goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, was suspended for two matches by FIFA for offensive behavior in September and missed qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia.

“The big players know that if they give the chance to play to a kid who comes from behind they could lose their place,” Scaloni said. “That breath of fresh air generates a lot for us. The boys are behaving in an exemplary manner.”