Argentina's World Cup-winning coach, Lionel Scaloni, emphasized that player performance and consistency are the primary criteria for national team selection, regardless of whether players compete in MLS or Liga MX.

He highlighted that playing in strong leagues like MLS or Liga MX is advantageous but not essential for being called up to the Argentine national team.

Scaloni stated that MLS has significantly improved and is now on par with Mexico's Liga MX, with both leagues featuring highly competitive and high-quality players.

The success of the 2025 Leagues Cup, where four MLS teams reached the semifinals and Seattle Sounders defeated Inter Miami, demonstrates the growing strength of American soccer.

With the 2026 World Cup hosted across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, Scaloni encouraged Latino fans in the U.S. to enjoy the sport and support Argentina or their local teams, highlighting soccer's cultural significance.

Scaloni's selection of MLS players like Messi, De Paul, and Thiago Almada exemplifies that the league is a legitimate pathway to the Argentine national team.