Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup is not confirmed, at least that is what Lionel Scaloni made clear today. Messi has made it clear that the decision is entirely up to him, as members of the Argentina national team avoid putting any pressure on their star players.
Messi’s existence remains shrouded in mystery
While Argentina prepares for international friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia, it is inevitable that all eyes will be on Messi and his potential final World Cup appearance following the cancellation of the Finalissima.
“That’s a question that concerns him. I don’t have to answer it. I want him to be there, but it’s up to him to decide. He has earned the right to choose calmly. We are not in a hurry,” Scaloni said at the press conference.
One of the big concerns in Argentina is the renewal of the team, but the manager has made it clear that winning the World Cup remains his focus.
The manager also mentioned renewing his contract, but made it clear that it is not a priority at the moment and his main goal remains the 2026 World Cup.
“The team will have a mix of players we want to evaluate and players who need to improve their level. Messi will play, but I don’t know if it will be from the first leg or the second leg.”
Amid these games, which are key for the preparations for the World Cup, he also spoke about Angel Di Mara’s possible return to the Argentina national team, saying: “We understand that his chapter is over. He has always made it clear and so have we.”
