With the next FIFA World Cup drawing closer, uncertainty still surrounds the participation of Lionel Messi. The upcoming tournament, which will be hosted across United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, will see Argentina national football team enter as the defending champions. Despite the excitement surrounding the competition, fans are still waiting for confirmation on whether Messi will be part of the squad as Argentina looks to defend the title they won in 2022.
Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, recently addressed the topic during a press conference but acknowledged that the final decision ultimately rests with the legendary forward himself. Scaloni explained that while the coaching staff hopes to have Messi available, factors such as the player’s physical condition and personal choice will determine his participation. He emphasized that the team respects Messi’s right to make the decision calmly and without pressure, considering everything he has contributed to Argentine football.
Scaloni also noted that Messi’s presence would mean a great deal not only to Argentine supporters but to football fans around the world. According to the coach, the global appeal of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner makes him a central figure in the sport. Still, the Argentine camp is not rushing the decision, trusting that Messi will carefully evaluate what is best both for himself and for the national team before committing to another World Cup campaign.
Messi’s legacy with Argentina is already firmly established. Over the course of his international career, he has made 196 appearances for the national team and scored 115 goals, making him both the country’s most-capped player and its all-time leading scorer. His crowning achievement came during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, when he guided Argentina to victory after previously falling short in the 2014 final against Germany national football team.
Before the tournament begins, Argentina is scheduled to play friendly matches against Mauritania national football team and Zambia national football team as part of their preparations. Messi is expected to be involved in these games, although it remains uncertain whether he will start both matches. As the World Cup approaches, supporters around the globe continue to watch closely, hoping the iconic forward will once again lead Argentina onto football’s biggest stage.
