'Lionel Messi Can Reach Historic 1,000-Goal Milestone, Argentina Coach Lionel Scaloni Issues Bold Statement

Argentine national team coach Lionel Scaloni has made a bold prediction regarding captain Lionel Messi, suggesting the football icon could achieve the extraordinary milestone of 1,000 career goals. The declaration came after Argentina's dominant 5-0 friendly victory over Zambia on Tuesday, 1 April 2026, a match in which the 38-year-old Messi found the net, bringing his career total to 902 goals across club and country. Scaloni's comments underscore the enduring brilliance of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner and ignite further debate about his unparalleled longevity in the sport. FIFA World Cup 2026: Here's A Look At Groups Ahead 23rd Edition of Football WC.

Lionel Scaloni Issues Bold Statement

Speaking to reporters post-match at La Bombonera, Scaloni expressed his belief in Messi's capability to reach the historic figure. "He could reach 1,000 goals, we'll have to see how much longer he plays," Scaloni stated. "The thing is, he has to want to keep going. I hope he does, because he's happy on the pitch and we all want to see him. One year he scored over 90 goals – he can get there."

The coach's remarks highlight that while the physical demands on a player of Messi's age are immense, his desire and passion for the game remain the ultimate determinants of his future achievements.

The Road to 1,000

Messi's current tally of 902 career goals places him among an elite few, with only rival Cristiano Ronaldo having also surpassed the 900-goal mark. The Inter Miami forward recently celebrated his 900th career goal earlier this season, demonstrating his continued prolificacy.  FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi-Led Argentina to Set Base in Kansas City.

With his contract at Inter Miami extended through 2028, Messi has a clear runway to continue accumulating goals in Major League Soccer, a league where he has already shown significant impact, scoring 82 goals in 94 games since 2023. Reaching 1,000 goals would require Messi to score nearly 100 more, a challenging but not impossible feat given his historical scoring rates and consistent performance.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Ambitions

Beyond individual records, Scaloni also touched upon Messi's potential participation in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite having led Argentina to glory in Qatar four years prior, Messi has yet to definitively confirm his involvement in the tournament.

However, Scaloni remains optimistic, noting Messi's relaxed demeanour and continued desire to represent his country. "It will be a privilege if Leo decides to play in the World Cup. We all want him to enjoy it and we're helping him feel good," Scaloni added. "He wants the same as us, now he's more relaxed because he's already won a World Cup. His desire to be there and share it is there, we'll see what he decides to do and we'll support him." 'Cristiano Ronaldo Not Obsessed with 1,000-Goal Milestone', Portugal Coach Roberto Martinez.

The prospect of Lionel Messi reaching 1,000 career goals adds another layer of intrigue to the twilight of an already legendary career. While the achievement hinges on his sustained desire and fitness, Scaloni's public backing serves as a testament to Messi's enduring quality and the belief within the Argentine camp that their captain can continue to defy expectations and rewrite the record books.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 01, 2026 10:37 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).