Lionel Messi’s future with Argentina at the World Cup is still undecided, according to Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni.
Despite the uncertainty, Messi has been named in the squad for upcoming friendlies. These include matches against Mauritania and Zambia.
Messi to Feature in Friendlies
Scaloni has confirmed that Messi will play in both the Mauritania and Zambia games. Doubts, however, linger about his involvement in Argentina’s title defence in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Their campaign is set to begin on June 17 against Algeria in Kansas City.
Scaloni addressed the question of Messi’s World Cup participation during a press conference. “This is a question more for him but as far as I’m concerned, you already know what I think. I will do everything I can to make sure he is there,” he stated.
Scaloni added, “I believe that he has to be there, for the sake of football, but it’s not me who decides. It’s up to him, how he feels in his mind and his physical condition.”
The Dilemma for Argentina’s Coaches
Scaloni acknowledged the widespread desire to see Messi play. “It’s difficult because it’s not just Argentinians who want to see him, everyone wants to see him.”
He also highlighted the challenges faced by the coaching staff. “And then we have the dilemma as his coaches when he’s there, if he’s able to play the whole game or if he’s not.”
Scaloni reiterated his desire for Messi to be involved. “I want him to be there, but he’s the one who decides. I’m not going to stand here and say, ‘Let’s see if I pick him or not.'”
He emphasised Messi’s right to make his own decision. “He has earned the right to decide calmly. We are not in a rush. We know that whatever he decides will be the best thing for both him and the team. We hope he’ll be there but I can’t say much more.”
Messi’s Perspective
Messi has a wealth of World Cup experience, having played in the last five tournaments. He also captained Argentina to victory in 2022 and holds the record for the most appearances in the tournament’s history with 26.
Last October, Messi admitted that his participation in the upcoming World Cup was not guaranteed. “It’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup, and I would love to,” said Messi.
- He wants to be well and an important part of helping his team.
- He will assess his condition on a day-to-day basis.
- He will start pre-season with Inter Miami next year.
“I’m going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start pre-season next year with Inter [Miami] and see if I can really be 100 per cent, if I can be useful and then make a decision.
“I’m really eager because it’s a World Cup. We’re coming off winning the last one, and being able to defend it on the field again is spectacular because it’s always a dream to play with the national team.”
The Inter Miami unveiled the Leo Messi Stand at the Nu Stadium.
The MLS club said in a statement: “Recognising someone is not always about closing a chapter. Sometimes it is about realising you are witnessing something unique.
Inter Miami is thrilled to an