Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has addressed the uncertainty surrounding Lionel Messi’s potential absence from the 2026 World Cup, clarifying that the talismanic forward will take his time before making a final decision. Messi played his last official match for Argentina in a 3-0 victory over Venezuela on 4 September, where he emotionally waved goodbye to fans. However, he declined to guarantee his participation in the upcoming tournament during a post-match interview.
“It’s an exciting time, and I’m motivated to play in it,” Messi commented in light of the World Cup. “As I always say, I go day by day, assessing how I feel. When I feel good, I enjoy it; but when I don’t, I prefer not to be there. So, we’ll see how it goes. I haven’t made a decision yet; I will finish the season, go through preseason, and then we’ll see how I feel.”
Scaloni remarked on Messi’s interview, affirming that the player’s decision will be respected: “I’m still not sure about the percentage of the list. We have a base, there are players who are consistently in the mix, and not much will change from there. I haven’t spoken with Leo about the World Cup. I know what he said and he will take this time calmly.
Whatever he decides will be fine.”
Messi will not join the national team for their final World Cup qualifier against Ecuador in Guayaquil, as he and Scaloni opted to prioritise his recovery after a hamstring injury. Argentina has already secured qualification for the World Cup, currently leading the CONMEBOL standings with 38 points from 17 games.
Commenting on his absence, Messi said, “I spoke with Scaloni, and he decided that I should rest and not travel to Ecuador. We prefer to avoid the trip and prepare for what’s coming up well-rested. Our goal is to win the MLS, and we have a friendly in October where we will regroup.”
Messi will now return to Miami to rejoin his club as they gear up for the final stretch of the season.
