Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has stated that Lionel Messi will make the final decision on his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and he trust in the captain to make the best choice.
According to a report from ESPN, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni said that Lionel Messi will decide whether he plays in the 2026 FIFA World Cup — and the team will support whatever he chooses.
Scaloni, ahead of Friday’s draw, said: “He will decide, and we will support whatever he decides.”
He acknowledged that “in principle, everything is going well, but six months is a long time. There is still time,” leaving room for Messi to change his mind depending on how he feels.
The coach also voiced frustration with the scheduling of the 2026 Finalissima — a match between Argentina and Spain national football team — suggesting it “could have been played much earlier.”
Meanwhile, Argentina remain in Pot 1 for the World Cup draw that will take place today in Washington, D.C.