With just 81 days remaining until the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Argentina’s football fans remain in suspense over Lionel Messi’s participation. Head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that the decision ultimately rests with the 38-year-old superstar.
“When it comes to playing, that is more a question for him,” Scaloni stated during a recent press briefing.
Messi, Argentina’s all-time leading goal scorer with 115 international goals and the standout player of the 2022 World Cup, has yet to confirm whether he will extend his illustrious World Cup journey into another edition.
Scaloni Holds Out Hope
Despite the uncertainty, Scaloni emphasized that he is hopeful Messi will participate.
“As far as I’m concerned, you know my position. I will do everything I can to ensure he is there. For football’s sake, I believe he should be there,” Scaloni said. “But it’s not my decision. It depends on him, his mental condition, and his physical readiness.”
The coach also acknowledged the global anticipation surrounding Messi’s potential appearance.
“It’s difficult, because it’s not just Argentinians who want to see him, everyone wants to see him play. I want him there. The decision is in his hands. He has the right to decide calmly. Whatever choice he makes, we know it is best for both the team and him. We hope he will be there,” Scaloni added.
Participation in Friendly Matches
Even though Messi has yet to confirm his World Cup plans, Scaloni announced that he will feature in two upcoming international friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia on March 31 at Buenos Aires’ La Bombonera Stadium.
These matches provide fans a final opportunity to witness Messi in action on home soil. The fixtures replaced a planned clash with Spain in the Finalissima in Qatar, which was canceled due to conflict in the Middle East.
“Playing two more matches at home is a wonderful chance for Argentinians to see him and enjoy the moments when he is present,” Scaloni noted.
Squad Selection and Emerging Talent
Messi remains part of the provisional 30-man squad, alongside 16 other members from the 2022 World Cup-winning team. Scaloni has also called up several new talents, including Tomas Palacios, Gabriel Rojas, and Gianluca Prestianni.
“The squad selection will depend largely on player conditions,” Scaloni explained. “These are the main players, but we are open to including new or closely monitored players in the coming months. Everything depends on their fitness, injuries, and performance. It is crucial they are in top condition.”
Scaloni reaffirmed the importance of balancing the squad between experienced World Cup winners and players ready to compete at the highest level.
“We have expressed this from the beginning. We are grateful to those who helped us win the last World Cup, but we will face another World Cup and we need players who are ready and capable,” the coach said.
Road to World Cup 2026
Argentina will kick off its campaign in Group J on June 16 against Algeria, followed by matches against Austria and Jordan. The team’s preparation, including friendly matches and squad finalization, will be crucial in determining whether Messi will continue his World Cup legacy.
With his status still undecided, Messi’s potential participation remains one of the most anticipated storylines of the 2026 World Cup. Fans worldwide are watching closely, eager to see whether the legendary forward will once again lead Argentina on football’s biggest stage.
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