BUENOS AIRES, Argentina
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just over two months away, the footballing world is holding its breath over one question: will Lionel Messi be there? Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni confirmed yesterday that the final decision rests entirely with the legendary superstar, citing Messi’s “attitude and physical condition” as the deciding factors.
Messi recently appeared as a substitute in a 2-1 friendly win over Mauritania. While he didn’t find the back of the net, his presence alone electrified the home crowd. As Argentina prepares to defend their global crown this June, Scaloni remains hopeful but respectful of his captain’s privacy. “He has earned the right to make his decision in peace,” Scaloni told reporters, adding that he will do everything possible to ensure the veteran of 196 caps stays with the squad.
The defending champions are set to headline Group J, kicking off their campaign against Algeria in Kansas City on June 16, followed by matches against Austria and Jordan. Before the big stage, Argentina faces Zambia on April 1. Many fear this could be Messi’s final appearance on home soil if he chooses to step away before the tournament begins.
With 115 international goals to his name, Messi remains the heart of the team. Whether he seeks one last golden chapter in a career already defined by greatness remains to be seen. For now, the manager and the nation are simply waiting for a sign from their “Number 10.
