Lionel Scaloni is growing increasingly weary of the persistent questions about Lionel Messi's retirement plans, even though the football legend is still very active in the game.

At 36 years old, Messi, a seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, continues to defy age and show no signs of slowing down, much like his eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo.

His remarkable performances were instrumental in leading Argentina to a World Cup victory in Qatar in 2022, and he is widely expected to secure his eighth Golden Ball award in 2023.

Messi has seamlessly transitioned to the United States, making an immediate impact with MLS side Inter Miami. He remains a pivotal figure for his national team as they prepare for the 2024 Copa America, with their focus currently on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Albiceleste boss Scaloni sees no need to consider what will happen when Messi hangs up his boots, with that day seemingly still some way off for now. He said when quizzed on that subject once again, "Let's keep in mind that he is still here. What a way to think about 'when he is gone.' The truth is that he is still active; let's leave him alone. Are we already retiring him? We commit hara-kiri; we are all crazy."

Messi has been nursing an injury of late, limiting his game time at club level, but he stepped off the bench in Argentina’s 1-0 win over Paraguay last time out and is in contention to figure against Peru on Tuesday. Scaloni added, "Leo is fine. He has been adding minutes of training.

"We will make the decision. It's a matter of minutes to see how much he can play. If he's well, you know what I think, he will play. We always try to play those that are at 100 percent or close to 100 percent.

"It is very difficult for everyone to be at their best in these games so there may be a variation with respect to the game against Paraguay."