Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has offered an update on Lionel Messi’s fitness as the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies. The Albiceleste coach is closely monitoring the recovery of several key players, with Messi being a primary concern after he was substituted early in Inter Miami’s recent 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union.
During that match, Messi asked to be taken off in the 73rd minute, sparking fears among fans and the national team camp about his availability for the summer tournament. Inter Miami later confirmed that the issue is a muscle overload in his left hamstring, with a return date dependent on his response to treatment.
Scaloni, speaking to DSports and quoted by ESPN, said the preliminary reports are not alarming but emphasized caution. “We need to wait and see how he progresses,” Scaloni noted. “The early signs aren’t bad, but we must confirm through further tests.” He acknowledged that Messi will not be at 100% when he links up with the squad for pre-World Cup friendlies.
Scaloni also pointed out that Argentina has multiple injury worries beyond Messi. “It’s not just him; there are other players still working their way back,” the coach explained. “Our main focus is on their recovery so they can reach the World Cup in peak condition.”
Argentina are placed in Group J for the 2026 tournament, where they will face Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. The team’s hopes rest heavily on Messi’s fitness, but Scaloni is urging patience as medical staff monitor the situation.