During the event, Lionel Scaloni expressed his joy in welcoming the press professional and defined him as a source of great inspiration. Then, the coach announced that Lionel Messi would start the next game on the bench, a direct and unusual revelation for a coach about an athlete of such importance, demonstrating the depth of mutual respect.
Throughout his professional career, Enrique Macaya Márquez established a deep connection with the World Cup. Its first coverage was in 1958, in Sweden, where it witnessed Pelé’s emergence on the global football scene.
Two decades later, he was present at Argentina’s first home win, as well as observing the beginning of Diego Maradona’s career. Later, he closely followed Maradona’s historic victory in Mexico and, at the age of 88, witnessed Lionel Messi lift the trophy in Qatar.
In this way, Enrique established himself as one of the most prominent figures in South American sports journalism. He holds a feat recognized by FIFA: the record for consecutive coverage of World Cups.
Although football was his main focus, Macaya Márquez also served as a Formula 1 commentator on television. In 1966, he released the book “Mi vision del fútbol”. His career also includes participation in the program “Fútbol de Primera” between 1985 and 2009, as well as collaborations in publications such as the magazines “Ten Points” and “El Campeón”, and in the newspapers “Noticias Gráficas”, “Convicción” and “La Nación”. In 2007, the Buenos Aires legislature honored him with the title of “outstanding personality in sports journalism”.
The memorable moment during the press conference
During the session with the press, Enrique asked a direct question: “I would like to ask two questions that I know my colleagues won’t like, but I need your answer! The first is: will Messi play? And the second: how will the team be selected?” Immediately after the question, the other journalists present reacted with applause.
Then, coach Scaloni chose to discuss the history of his relationship with the experienced reporter, before providing an answer to the question raised.
“Enrique, before answering, it is a great pleasure that the question comes from you, and a great pleasure to see you here. Thank you for your presence! We are now talking about 18 World Cups. It is something impressive! I am happy to be able to answer your question, as we shared a lot of time together. When I was still playing in Argentina, I followed you constantly. And every time you spoke, you were a true inspiration for all of us. And you continue to be!”, declared the commander of the Argentine national team.
The technician continued, without showing any intention of deviating from the subject. “I will answer this question only because you are the one asking it! Otherwise, I would certainly try to avoid it! I only answer it because you deserve it!”, Scaloni emphasized.