Scaloni urges patience over Messi’s 2026 World Cup decision

Argentina have shown they can win without Lionel Messi, providing reassurance in case the 37-year-old chooses not to feature at the 2026 World Cup.

However, speculation over his participation continues to dominate discussions following Argentina's qualification for the tournament.

With the reigning champions securing their place in next year's competition, attention has shifted to whether Messi will compete in his sixth World Cup and attempt to defend Argentina's title.

Manager Lionel Scaloni, addressing the growing speculation, urged patience regarding Messi's decision.

"There's plenty of time. We must take it one game at a time, otherwise we'll be discussing this all year. We need to leave him alone—he will decide when he wants. Let's not drive him crazy," Scaloni said.

On 26 march, Argentina delivered a stunning 4-1 victory over Brazil, handing their rivals their worst-ever defeat in World Cup qualifying. That triumph, along with a 1-0 win over Uruguay days earlier, came without Messi, who was sidelined with a minor adductor muscle injury.

Messi, who led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar, has faced recurring injury issues with Inter Miami this season. Despite his absence, his teammates made it clear they want him back.

"With Messi, we might have scored two or three more goals," said Julián Álvarez, who was on the scoresheet against Brazil.

Rodrigo De Paul echoed that sentiment after the match at the Monumental de Núñez Stadium, stating: "The best version of our team is always when the No. 10 is playing, because he is the greatest of all time."

Argentina now leads the South American qualifiers with 31 points, securing one of the continent's six automatic spots for the expanded 48-team World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, the question of Messi's participation remains unanswered, with the decision resting solely in his hands.