Lionel Scaloni Opens Up on the Possibility of Lionel Messi Playing at the 2026 World Cup

Argentina national team manager Lionel Scaloni has addressed the growing speculation about Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing that the decision will be left to the player himself. Scaloni stated that his primary concern is giving Messi the space to make his own choices regarding his future with the national team.

Scaloni Reacts to Messi’s Chances at the World Cup

In recent times, Messi’s fitness has come into question as he was forced to pull out of Argentina’s March international matches due to a muscle injury. However, despite Messi’s absence, Argentina secured impressive wins over Uruguay and Brazil, boosting their confidence ahead of future competitions.

In response to mounting questions surrounding Messi’s future, Scaloni made it clear that the decision of whether or not Messi will play in the 2026 World Cup should not be rushed. “We’re taking it game by game,” Scaloni told the media after Argentina’s dominant 4-1 win over Brazil. “I don’t want to be dealing with that issue all year. We have to leave him alone and let him decide. He’ll decide, and let’s not drive him crazy.”

Messi’s Injury Woes and the 2026 World Cup Concerns

Messi, who will be 39 by the time the 2026 World Cup arrives, has been struggling with several injuries in recent years. His absence from key international matches has raised concerns about his ability to perform at the highest level. In the past year alone, Messi has missed four matches for Argentina due to injury, including two in the March international break.

Moreover, Messi’s fitness in club football has been a point of concern as well. Since the start of the 2025 season, the Inter Miami captain has only played a full 90 minutes three times and was also rested for three consecutive games earlier this month.

What’s Next for Messi?

As Argentina’s star player continues to battle injuries, the future of his World Cup aspirations remains uncertain. Messi’s recovery and fitness will play a key role in whether he will be available for the 2026 tournament. It is now a matter of whether he can regain full fitness in time to return to action for his club, with Inter Miami’s next MLS match against Philadelphia Union scheduled for March 29.

For now, Scaloni’s stance remains unchanged – Messi’s decision on his World Cup future will be respected, and the team will continue to focus on the present, rather than worrying about what lies ahead.