91-year-old journalist gets biggest scoop of World Cup after asking Lionel Scaloni question he'd never usually answer

Enrique Macaya Marquez, the legendary 91-year-old Argentinian journalist who is covering his 18th World Cup, is going viral for landing the biggest scoop of this summer's tournament.

Since attending his first World Cup in 1958, when a 17-year-old Pele announced himself on the global stage, Macaya has reported from every edition of football’s most famous competition.

As well as witnessing Argentina win the trophy on three occasions, in 1978, 1986 and 2022, he was officially awarded the world record for most World Cups covered by a journalist at the tournament in Qatar.

Speaking ahead of the 2026 edition, Marquez said: "I feel as though I have an obligation to do it. I don't know how much longer it will go on, but I'll try to make the most of the one I have in front of me."

The veteran broadcaster is respected by everyone he meets, including Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni, who was genuinely in awe of Marquez when the pair met at his pre-match press conference.

In fact, Scaloni was asked a question he would never usually answer, but after seeing who it came from, he made a very rare exception.

"I want to ask two questions that will sum up this entire press conference, and my colleagues are going to kill me," said Marquez. "But I want you to answer. The first is: Is Messi playing? And the other is: how are you going to set up the team?"

Scaloni, clearly touched by Marquez's attendance, confirmed that Lionel Messi would be absent from their starting line-up against Jordan.

"Before I answer you, Enrique, it’s a pleasure for me that you’re asking the question, it’s a pleasure to see you here. Thank you for coming. We’re now talking about 18 World Cups. Incredible," said Scaloni.

"When I played in Argentina, I saw you all the time. And every time you spoke, it was an inspiration for us. And it still is. I’m only going to answer the question because it’s you. Otherwise I’d dodge it."

He added: "I’m only answering because you deserve it. Messi will not start."

Scaloni went on to explain his game plan for Messi, who is currently the World Cup's top scorer with five goals.

"Leo will most likely come on in the second half," he said. "We talked and agreed that it was better that way, but obviously it's also good for him to stay in competitive form."

"The decision of who plays tomorrow is not related to who plays in the next match. Jordan is a good opponent, and our intention will be to have the ball and dominate through possession."

Scaloni added; "The opponent's forwards are fast and we will have to take that into account."