Will Messi miss the 2026 World Cup? Scaloni can't guarantee his presence on the Argentina National Team

Lionel Messi 's presence in the 2026 World Cup is not confirmed, at least that is what Lionel Scaloni revealed today. Within the Argentina national team , they are avoiding putting any kind of pressure on their star, and he made it clear that this decision depends entirely on Messi himself.

Messi's presence remains a mystery

While Argentina prepares for the international friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia , after the cancellation of the Finalissima , it is inevitable that all attention falls on Messi and his possible participation in what would be his last World Cup .

"It's a matter that concerns him. I don't have to answer that. I want him to be there, but it's he who decides. He has earned the right to choose calmly. We are in no hurry," were Scaloni's words in the press conference.

One of the big pending issues within Argentina is the squad renewal , although the coach has made it clear that they are not taking their focus off winning the World Cup .

The coach also referred to his own contract renewal , although he made it clear that it is not a priority at the moment: the main objective remains the 2026 World Cup .

"The team will be a mix of players we want to evaluate and others who need to raise their level. Messi is going to play, I don't know if from the start or in the second match."

Amid these matches that are key to preparing for their World Cup preparation , he also spoke about the possible return of Ángel Di María to the Argentina national team : "We understand that his chapter has ended. He always made that clear and so did we."