Lionel Scaloni sheds light on Lionel Messi's participation in 2026 FIFA World Cup

Messi was dropped from Argentina’s squad for their recent World Cup qualifiers.

He “doesn’t want to deal with the issue” of Lionel Messi participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni.

Following concerns over Messi’s prospects of playing in the 2026 World Cup, Argentina manager Scaloni emphasized that he wants to allow Messi the time and space to make his own decisions.

Amidst the muscle issue that prevented him from playing during the March international break, Argentina defeated Uruguay 1-0 and then dominated bitter rivals Brazil 4-1 on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters after his side demolished the Selecao, Scaloni said: “We’re taking it game by game. 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.”

There are concerns over Messi taking part in the main event, which is scheduled to start in North America in just over a year, because of his recent string of injuries.

Lionel Scaloni. History maker. 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/GuJUGq85m9

— Mundo Albiceleste ⭐🌟⭐🇦🇷 (@MundoAlbicelest) March 26, 2025

In the past year, the Herons captain had missed four La Albiceleste games due to injury, and he missed two more during the March international break. Since 2025 began, he has only played 90 minutes in club football three times. Earlier this month, he was sidelined for three straight games.

However, without the former Barcelona player, Argentina still remain a top side in the matches. This has indicated that his absence hasn’t really affected their performance, and it won’t be a major blow for them if Messi fails to play in the competition next year.

It will depend on the player’s fitness. Messi is set for a tight schedule for Inter Miami this season, with the Club World Cup also on the horizon. However, Messi will always be welcomed in the national team squad. Only his fitness will be the main test he will have to pass.

Meanwhile, it’s unclear if Messi will be healthy enough to play for Javier Mascherano’s Inter Miami team against the Philadelphia Union in an MLS match on March 29.

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