Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, has officially stated that Lionel Messi will begin their World Cup match against Jordan from the substitute bench. This revelation came during a particularly moving conversation with the venerable 91-year-old journalist Macaya Marquez, a figure who has reported on an astonishing 18 World Cups. Scaloni's deference to Marquez was evident, as he remarked that he would typically avoid answering such questions from other reporters, underscoring the journalist's iconic status and long-standing influence in sports media.
Macaya Marquez stands as a monumental figure in football journalism, boasting a career that spans from the legendary Pelé to the contemporary icon Lionel Messi. His journey began at the 1958 World Cup in Sweden, where he witnessed Pelé's meteoric rise. Marquez has maintained an unbroken streak, covering every subsequent World Cup, and continues to do so in 2026, observing what may be the final World Cup appearances for current football giants like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
A Coach's Respect: Scaloni's Unique Disclosure to a Veteran Reporter
Lionel Scaloni, the head coach of the Argentine national team, made headlines with his decision to bench star player Lionel Messi for the upcoming World Cup group stage match against Jordan. This news, while anticipated by some reports, gained particular traction due to the unique manner of its confirmation. During a press conference, Scaloni responded to a direct inquiry from Macaya Marquez, a highly respected 91-year-old journalist. The coach explicitly stated his admiration for Marquez, acknowledging his unparalleled record of covering 18 World Cups. Scaloni's candidness with Marquez, remarking that he would have evaded the question from any other reporter, highlighted the deep respect and honor he holds for the veteran journalist. This moment underscored a rare intersection of generations in sports, where a celebrated coach paid tribute to a journalistic legend, adding a poignant human element to a routine team announcement.
The interaction between Scaloni and Marquez quickly went viral, resonating with football fans and media professionals alike. Scaloni's heartfelt response not only confirmed Messi's benching but also offered a glimpse into the camaraderie and mutual respect that can exist between those at the pinnacle of sports. Marquez, known for his extensive coverage and insightful commentary since the 1958 World Cup, represented a living history of the sport. For Scaloni to entrust him with this significant piece of team news, bypassing standard media protocols, served as a powerful testament to Marquez's enduring legacy and credibility. This gesture emphasized that beyond the competitive nature of professional sports, there remains a deep appreciation for those who have dedicated their lives to documenting and chronicling its most memorable moments. The exchange became more than just a news announcement; it was a touching recognition of a storied career and an unforgettable moment in the lead-up to a major international tournament.
Macaya Marquez: A Career Spanning Eras from Pelé to Messi
Macaya Marquez's illustrious career as a football journalist is truly extraordinary, commencing with the 1958 World Cup in Sweden, an event where he witnessed the debut of a 17-year-old Pelé. His remarkable journey has seen him cover every single World Cup since, culminating in the 2026 tournament. This longevity means Marquez has observed the entire spectrum of football's evolution, from the rise of early legends to the current era of superstars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, whose potential final World Cup appearances he is now chronicling. His consistent presence at these global spectacles has made him an unparalleled authority on football history, offering a unique perspective that very few can claim. Marquez's career is not merely a collection of assignments; it is a tapestry woven through decades of the sport's most significant moments, making him a living archive of football's rich heritage and a bridge between its past and present.
Beyond his World Cup attendance, Marquez was a pivotal figure in Argentine football media, notably hosting "Futbol de Primera," the nation's most influential soccer program, from 1985 to 2009. Although largely retired now, his commitment to covering the World Cup remains unwavering, ensuring his status as arguably the most prolific and respected World Cup reporter ever. His career has paralleled and chronicled the careers of two of Argentina's most revered football icons: Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. For modern Argentine fans, Marquez holds a special place, as he has been the consistent voice and chronicler through the golden ages of these two footballing giants. His ability to connect with different generations of fans and players, coupled with his unparalleled historical knowledge, solidifies his legend not just in journalism, but within the broader narrative of global football, making him an irreplaceable figure whose insights bridge eras and enduringly captivate audiences worldwide.
