Argentina Manager Vows to Do 'Everything Possible' for Messi's 2026 World Cup Participation

Lionel Scaloni says it's up to Messi, but he'll make sure the legendary forward is there

Mar. 27, 2026 at 4:48pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Argentina national team manager Lionel Scaloni said he will do 'everything possible' to ensure Lionel Messi plays in the 2026 World Cup, though the decision ultimately rests with the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. Messi, who would be 39 years old during the tournament, has expressed uncertainty about his future with the national team, but Scaloni is determined to have him on the roster.

Why it matters

Messi's participation in the 2026 World Cup would be a historic moment, as he would become the first male player to appear in six World Cups. His presence would also be a major boost for Argentina as they seek to defend their 2022 title and become the first country to repeat as champions since Brazil in 1962.

The details

Scaloni confirmed that Messi will play in Argentina's upcoming friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia, but he is unsure if the legendary forward will start both matches. Messi has been heavily involved with the national team in the lead-up to the World Cup, despite his busy schedule with Inter Miami in MLS. The 38-year-old has played every minute for his club so far this season, though he was rested for one match.

  • Messi debuted for Argentina at the 2006 World Cup.
  • Messi would be on course for a record sixth men's World Cup appearance in 2026.
  • Argentina's friendly against Mauritania is scheduled for the end of March 2026.

The players

Lionel Scaloni

The manager of the Argentina national team, who is determined to have Lionel Messi on the roster for the 2026 World Cup.

Lionel Messi

The legendary Argentine forward, who has expressed uncertainty about his future with the national team but is expected to play in the 2026 World Cup if he decides to continue.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Messi's long-time rival, who is also set to achieve a record sixth men's World Cup appearance in 2022.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'll do everything possible to make sure he's there. I believe that, for the good of soccer, he should be there. All Argentines want to see him, and so does the world.”

— Lionel Scaloni, Argentina national team manager

“It will be up to him. His mindset, his mental state, his physical condition. Then we'll see if he's able to play every match. He has earned the right to decide—we're in no rush.”

— Lionel Scaloni, Argentina national team manager

“This year we had so many matches, one after another. I just came off a break for a few days, then had another setback.”

— Lionel Messi

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Messi's participation in the 2026 World Cup would be a historic moment, and Argentina's manager is determined to make it happen, though the final decision rests with the legendary forward himself.