Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has spoken about the ongoing speculation surrounding Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, insisting that Messi should be given the freedom to make his own decision without external pressure.

Scaloni Avoids Speculation About Messi’s World Cup Future

After Argentina’s commanding 4-1 victory over Brazil, Lionel Scaloni addressed questions about Messi’s future with the national team. With Messi currently dealing with a muscle injury that kept him out of the March international break, Scaloni emphasized that the decision regarding Messi’s involvement in the 2026 World Cup should be made by the player himself. “I don’t want to be talking about this all year long. Messi will decide what’s best for him. Let him make the decision in peace,” Scaloni said.

Messi, now 37, has faced fitness issues in recent months, including missed matches for both club and country. Despite these concerns, Lionel Scaloni remains calm and insists that there’s no need for unnecessary pressure on Argentina’s captain, who remains one of the most influential players in world football.

Messi’s physical condition has been under scrutiny as he continues to battle injuries. He missed Argentina’s recent qualifiers due to muscle problems, and at club level with Inter Miami, he has played limited minutes in the 2025 MLS season. Scaloni acknowledged the challenges Messi faces but expressed confidence that the player will determine his future based on his fitness and readiness.

With more than a year to go until the World Cup, Argentina fans are left wondering whether Messi will be fit for another campaign. Scaloni’s cautious approach is focused on letting Messi recover in his own time without being burdened by expectations.