The Argentine national team has shown they can compete at a high level even without Lionel Messi by securing a berth in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With qualification confirmed, the biggest question now is whether the 37-year-old legend will return for what would be his sixth World Cup appearance, or if his time on soccer’s biggest stage has come to an end.
This debate intensified after Argentina delivered two crucial victories in March, beating Uruguay 1-0 and then handing Brazil a humiliating 4-1 defeat—their worst-ever loss in World Cup qualifying history. Remarkably, both triumphs came without their main superstar, who was sidelined with a muscle injury.
While La Albiceleste have shown their ability to compete at the highest level even in Messi’s absence, his teammates and fans remain hopeful that their iconic captain will return for one last dance on the world stage.
What did Scaloni say about Messi’s future with Argentina?
After Argentina’s historic victory over Brazil, head coach Lionel Scaloni was naturally asked about Messi’s potential participation in the 2026 tournament. However, Scaloni made it clear that he was not ready to dwell on the subject, delivering a cryptic seven-word message that left fans speculating. “We must go one game at a time. Otherwise, we will be speaking about the same thing the rest of the year.”
The 46-year-old emphasized that the focus should remain on Argentina’s journey rather than endless speculation over Messi’s participation. However, it was in the next part of his statement that he delivered his key seven-word message: “We need to leave him alone and let him decide.”
In addition, the Argentina boss made it clear that Messi will have the final say on whether he continues with the national team. Scaloni added: “He will decide whenever he wants, let’s not drive him crazy with this.”
Messi’s injury concerns and club form
One of the biggest factors influencing Messi’s 2026 decision is his recent injury struggles. Since joining Inter Miami, he has experienced multiple muscle issues, forcing him to miss several matches for both club and country.
So far in 2025, Messi has missed six international matches due to injury, which is why he has played a full 90 minutes only three times for the Herons. The veteran has also been rested for three consecutive club matches earlier this month.
Given these physical setbacks, the Miami captain may be weighing whether he can maintain his elite fitness and performance level for another year and a half leading up to the next World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
