Lionel Messi’s FIFA World Cup participation unclear as Argentina head coach says ‘it’s not my decision’

Lionel Scaloni is unsure if Lionel Messi will participate in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Published on: Mar 27, 2026, 18:31:51 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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The 2026 FIFA World Cup is approaching, but defending champions Argentina have yet to confirm Lionel Messi's availability. According to national team head coach Lionel Scaloni, the Inter Miami star has yet to decide whether he will play in the tournament. Messi was the Player of the Tournament in 2022 and is also his country's all-time leading scorer with 115 goals.

Lionel Messi has not yet confirmed his 2026 FIFA World Cup participation. (AP)

When asked if his 38-year-old captain will play in the 2026 World Cup, Scaloni said, "That's a question more for him [Messi]."

Also Read: FIFA approves new time-wasting rules for 2026 World Cup, mandates quicker substitutions and throw-ins

"As far as I'm concerned, you already know where I stand. I'll do everything I can to make sure he's there. I believe that, for the sake of football, he has to be there. It's not me who decides. It's up to him, his state of mind, his physical condition," he said.

"It's difficult because it is not just the Argentinians who want to see him, everyone wants to see him.

"I want him to be there. It's up to him to decide. He's earned the right to make that decision with peace of mind. We're in no rush about it. We know whatever he decides will be best for the team and for him. We hope he will be there," he added.

Messi is one of the 16 World Cup winners in Scaloni's 30-man squad, which also includes uncapped defenders Tomas Palacios, Gabriel Rojas and Gianluca Prestianni. The South Americans begin their World Cup title defence on June 16 against Algeria, before taking on Austria and Jordan in Group J.

“In principle, these are the players. But we're open to considering players who have joined us recently and whom we may have been tracking over the last few months. It will all depend on how they arrive, their injury status and their form; it's important that they're in good shape in every respect, or as close to their full potential as possible”, said Scaloni.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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