Lucas Scaglia: Career Journey of the Argentine Midfielder and Coach
Lucas Scaglia is a versatile Argentine football professional who has transitioned from a global playing career as a midfielder—a player positioned between the defense and the attack—to a role in coaching. Born in Rosario, Argentina, Scaglia's journey has taken him across several continents, playing in leagues spanning Europe, South America, and North America.
Beyond his professional achievements on the pitch, Scaglia is well-known for his lifelong personal connection to one of the greatest athletes in history, Lionel Messi. Having grown up together in Rosario, Scaglia remains a close part of Messi's inner circle.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Lucas Scaglia
- Date of Birth: 6 May 1987
- Place of Birth: Rosario, Argentina
- Playing Position: Midfielder
- Notable Connection: Childhood friend and cousin-in-law of Lionel Messi
- Career Highlight: Won both the 2017 Spring and Fall UPSL National Championships with California United FC II
Professional Playing Career
Early Years and International Experience
Scaglia began his development in the youth system of Newell's Old Boys. His early senior career was characterized by a wide range of experiences across different leagues. He spent time in Spain with Terrassa and in Greece with clubs including PAS Giannina, Panserraikos, Trikala, and AEL Kalloni. He also competed in South America, representing Bolívar in Bolivia and Once Caldas and Deportivo Cali in Colombia.
North American Tenure
In January 2015, Scaglia moved to the United States, signing with the Jacksonville Armada of the North American Soccer League (NASL). He became a consistent presence for the club, appearing in 41 league matches and scoring two goals before departing at the end of the 2016 season.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Following his time in Jacksonville, Scaglia joined California United FC II in 2017. He played a pivotal role in the team's success, helping them capture both the Spring and Fall United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) National Championships. He later joined the USL Championship side Las Vegas Lights on 9 January 2019.
Personal Life and Connections
Lucas Scaglia shares a deep personal bond with Lionel Messi, dating back to their childhood in Rosario. This connection was further solidified through family ties; Messi married Scaglia's cousin, Antonela Roccuzzo, in 2017, making Scaglia Messi's cousin-in-law.
Career Statistics Summary
The following table provides a comprehensive overview of Lucas Scaglia's senior club appearances and goals across his professional career.
| Years | Team | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006–2008 | Newell's Old Boys | 4 | 0 |
| 2008 | Terrassa | 4 | 0 |
| 2008–2009 | PAS Giannina | 0 | 0 |
| 2009–2010 | Panserraikos | 27 | 2 |
| 2010–2011 | Trikala | 1 | 0 |
| 2011 | AEL Kalloni | 7 | 0 |
| 2012 | Bolívar | 6 | 0 |
| 2012–2013 | Once Caldas | 32 | 0 |
| 2013–2014 | Deportivo Cali | 18 | 4 |
| 2014–2015 | Rijeka / Rijeka II | 12 | 0 |
| 2015–2016 | Jacksonville Armada | 41 | 2 |
| 2017–2018 | California United FC II | 20 | 2 |
| 2019 | Las Vegas Lights | 9 | 0 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lucas Scaglia's relationship to Lionel Messi?
Lucas Scaglia is a childhood friend of Lionel Messi and is his cousin-in-law, as Messi is married to Scaglia's cousin, Antonela Roccuzzo.
Which teams did Lucas Scaglia play for in the United States?
Scaglia played for the Jacksonville Armada, California United FC II, and the Las Vegas Lights.
What were Scaglia's most successful achievements in the US?
He was a key member of the California United FC II squad that won both the 2017 Spring and Fall United Premier Soccer League National Championships.
What position did Lucas Scaglia play during his football career?
Lucas Scaglia played as a midfielder throughout his professional career.
Where did Lucas Scaglia begin his football journey?
He began his football development in the youth career system of Newell's Old Boys in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina.