The participation of Lionel Messi at the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains under significant doubt, with ongoing injury concerns and his age raising questions about whether the Inter Miami star will feature this summer. At 38, Messi would be attempting to defend the title he won so memorably in Qatar in 2022.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has remained diplomatic, stating that 'the door is always open for Leo' but acknowledging that the player's fitness must come first. Messi has been managing a recurring calf injury that limited his appearances during the MLS season.
Argentina are drawn in Group J alongside Austria, Algeria and Jordan — a group they are expected to navigate comfortably with or without Messi. The deeper question is whether Scaloni's squad, featuring Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández and a new generation of talent, can mount a successful defence of their title without their talisman.
National teams must submit a preliminary list of up to 55 players by May 11, with final 26-player rosters due on May 30.
