Lionel Messi’s third appearance in a FIFA World Cup final concluded in disappointment following Argentina’s loss to Spain, yet one of his closest former teammates insists the outcome should not mark the conclusion of the iconic forward’s time with the national team.

Ángel Di María, a key figure in Argentina’s recent successes, has called on Messi to keep representing his country for as long as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner feels able to do so. The comments come as debate intensifies over the future of the 39-year-old captain after another deep run on the world stage.

Messi reached yet another World Cup final this summer, establishing himself as the second-oldest player ever to achieve that feat, trailing only Italy’s legendary goalkeeper Dino Zoff. His consistent contributions throughout the tournament have sparked renewed discussion about whether he should remain in the famous light-blue-and-white jersey.

Di María, who shared numerous memorable moments with Messi over the years, made clear that the decision belongs solely to the player himself.

“Leo has to keep going as long as he wants,” Di María said. “I believe he can continue for many more years. At 39, he proved that he is still one of the best and that he can continue to be one of the best in history.”

The former Argentina winger’s remarks stand in notable contrast to earlier comments from midfielder Leandro Paredes. Paredes had indicated that Messi had already resolved to step away from international duty prior to the final, leaving questions hanging over the captain’s plans in the wake of the defeat.

Di María rejected any notion that age has reduced Messi’s impact. He emphasized that the forward continues to operate at an elite standard and retains attributes few players in the history of the game have possessed.

The comments underscore the deep respect Messi still commands inside the Argentina squad. Few players have experienced as many pivotal moments alongside him as Di María, who found the net in the 2022 World Cup final and contributed significantly during one of the nation’s most accomplished stretches.

Beyond Messi’s personal future, Di María also weighed in on the coaching situation. He expressed a clear desire for head coach Lionel Scaloni to remain at the helm of the national team.

Scaloni has overseen a highly successful era for Argentina, securing four major trophies while successfully integrating a new wave of talented players into the setup.

“I hope he stays for everyone’s sake,” Di María said.

Neither Messi nor Scaloni has issued an official statement confirming their intentions moving forward. Still, public support from a figure of Di María’s stature carries considerable influence within Argentine football circles.

His message points toward the potential benefits of continuity. Keeping both the celebrated captain and the title-winning coach in place, Di María suggested, could help Argentina stay competitive among the top international sides for the foreseeable future.

Messi’s ability to deliver high-level performances at an advanced age has already rewritten expectations around longevity in the modern game. Supporters and observers will now watch closely to see whether the player heeds his longtime teammate’s advice and extends his international chapter.

For now, Di María’s endorsement leaves the door open. The decision, as he repeatedly stressed, rests entirely with Messi.