It was difficult to give a clear answer, but for now, it was a clear no. Messi entered in the second half of that match without a standout performance and did not contribute significantly, but it was hard to draw firm conclusions given it was a friendly. In addition, his presence remains essential for many due to his leadership and the impact he generates on the field, with his talent never in doubt.

Messi no longer has the same physical capacity as before, but a moment of brilliance could still decide any match, which makes him a key piece for Argentina. Scaloni had already mentioned that they must submit a preliminary list of up to 55 players by May 11, followed by the final 26-man roster by May 30. While assembling the preliminary list has not been an issue, Scaloni faces the tougher task of trimming 29 players with the World Cup fewer than 80 days away.

What Scaloni said

When asked about the roster situation during Monday’s press conference, Scaloni offered a candid assessment. “We have already submitted the 55-man list to the AFA, which they will then have to pass on to FIFA. As for the final 26, in terms of percentages, we are over the limit. We will have to start cutting players based on performance.”

Reports had emerged suggesting Scaloni had 21 of the 26 spots already decided, with Messi leading the group. While the coach has not officially confirmed a single name, not even his captain, it is the final five spots that proved the most difficult to settle.

Scaloni also acknowledged that the narrow 2-1 win over Mauritania could factor into his thinking as he worked toward the final roster. “There’s no other way, and the match the other day might have been a warning sign, or just a one-off. But these are things that, as a coach, you take note of. The final decision will be made at the end,” he said.

“What matters most is the team. We will think about the good of the team, and based on that, we will make decisions. I have the list fairly clear in my head, but if performances are not up to par, we will take action,” Scaloni added, sending a clear message that no player’s place was guaranteed and that a dip in form could cost them a spot.

What’s next for Argentina and Messi

Following the disappointing showing against Mauritania, Scaloni confirmed that Messi would start Tuesday’s friendly against Zambia. When asked about his plans, he made it clear he intended to use a full-strength lineup.

“Most of the boys we know well will play tomorrow. I think it’s the final test, and regardless of how the match goes, as the minutes pass, we will make changes and look at more of the boys again. The idea is to field a more familiar team, the one everyone is used to seeing, and see how things turn out.”

Speculation intensified after Scaloni confirmed that he recently met Messi in Rosario. The moment was understated but meaningful, as two figures who have shared soccer’s highest achievements crossed paths once again. “I met with Leo because we were nearby. We had coffee,” Scaloni said to AFA Estudio, intentionally downplaying the significance while recognizing its natural weight.

Only later did Scaloni directly address the World Cup topic, and his message was carefully measured. “We didn’t talk about the World Cup,” he explained, before adding a line that quickly resonated across global media: “We need to leave him alone to make the right decision.” It was neither confirmation nor denial, but a clear stance from the coaching staff.

Scaloni emphasized that any decision regarding Messi’s future with Argentina will be made without external pressure. Once the Inter Miami forward decides, the national team will adapt accordingly. “Then we will think about what is best for the team, based on that decision,” Scaloni said, making it clear that patience remains central to Argentina’s approach.

Scaloni knows Messi wants to be there

Scaloni and Messi met in the town of Funes, where the Argentina captain traditionally spends part of his holidays. The head coach knows his leader well and strongly suggested that Messi’s competitive nature has not faded. “He always wants to be there,” Scaloni said, reinforcing the belief within the squad.

Those close to Messi understand his mentality. Scaloni explained that Messi never relaxes, always wants to compete, and consistently looks to be available. That attitude, according to the coach, sets a powerful example for the rest of Argentina’s players, who see their captain committed regardless of circumstances.

How the meeting came together

The World Cup-winning coach was spending time in his hometown of Pujato with his family when he learned that Messi was nearby in Funes. Given the short distance, Scaloni decided to meet him in person, taking advantage of the opportunity for a face-to-face conversation.

Scaloni reiterated that the World Cup was intentionally left out of the discussion. “There’s still time,” he explained, stressing the importance of not overwhelming Messi and allowing him to decide calmly. Argentina, he said, will evaluate what is best for the team once that moment arrives.

What’s this whole story about? Yesterday, during the draw ceremony, Scaloni walked onto the stage carrying the World Cup trophy his team won in Qatar 2022 — but he was only allowed to hold it while wearing gloves. “I apologize on behalf of FIFA. Of course, the world champions are allowed to touch the Cup,” FIFA’s top chief apologized.

The ceremony took place in Washington, D.C., where several prominent figures were in attendance, including Donald Trump, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, Mark Carney, and Infantino himself. In addition, sports icons such as Tom Brady, Shaquille O’Neal, Wayne Gretzky, and Aaron Judge were tasked with opening the draw balls for each national team.

Although there are still a few months to go before the kickoff of one of the world’s most popular sporting events, fans everywhere are already gearing up for a new edition of the World Cup, which will take place across the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

Argentina’s fate is set

Argentina enters this new edition of the World Cup as the reigning champion, looking to claim back-to-back titles. With its opponents now confirmed, the big question fans are asking is: when and where will Lionel Messi and his teammates take the field?

The defending champion Argentina national team will kick off their Group J schedule for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. Their opening match is on June 16 at 9:00 PM ET against Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

The Albiceleste will then play their next two fixtures in Dallas, Texas, facing Austria on June 22 at 1:00 PM ET, and concluding the group stage against Jordan on June 27 at 10:00 PM ET.

Despite the loss, recognition for the young players came quickly from the senior national team. Hours after the match, Lionel Scaloni shared a message on his official Instagram account, congratulating the squad for their performance throughout the tournament.

In his post, the head coach praised the commitment and determination of the players while also acknowledging the work of Diego Placente and his technical staff, who had previously guided Argentina to the semifinals of the 2023 U-17 World Cup.

“We have the boys, the passion, the feeling, the motivation, the discipline, and the fight… Argentina and the senior national team staff are very proud of you. Thanks to the entire delegation, Bernardo Romeo, Diego Placente and his technical staff, and especially the players for what they achieved in this World Cup. Vamos Argentina!” Scaloni wrote.

Lionel Messi shows support for the Under-20 team

Captain of the senior national team, Lionel Messi, also joined in congratulating the young players. On his official Instagram account, Messi posted an image of the AFA emblem along with a message of encouragement for the squad that represented Argentina with pride, even though they could not lift the trophy.

“Keep your heads up, guys! You played an incredible tournament, and although we all wanted to see you lift the trophy, we are left with the joy of everything you gave us and the pride of seeing how you defended the celeste y blanca with your hearts,” Messi wrote.

Still the greatest despite the loss

Even with the defeat, Argentina remains the most successful team in the U-20 category. The Albiceleste maintain an outstanding record in the competition, having won six titles in eight finals played.

Their first championship came in Japan in 1979 with Diego Maradona leading the way. José Pekerman’s era added two more titles in Qatar 1995 and Malaysia 1997. Javier Saviola and Lionel Messi, respectively, then spearheaded the teams that won in Argentina 2001 and the Netherlands 2005, with the most recent triumph coming in Canada 2007 under Sergio Aguero.

Scaloni faces this uncertainty because Messi is not at full fitness, having played the full 90 minutes in seven consecutive matches for Inter Miami over the past 21 days. In addition, he has the MLS playoffs ahead — a major upcoming challenge for Inter Miami, which has already secured its spot.

During a press conference, Scaloni noted that he plans to speak with Messi to assess his condition, emphasizing that there is no intention to take unnecessary risks. He also mentioned that Marcos Acuña is in a similar situation.

“We’re going to talk with him and with everyone,” Scaloni told reporters. “The idea is not to risk anyone. These are friendlies, and while the national team is important, anyone with even a minor issue won’t be risked. But if they’re fit, they’ll play”.

Scaloni will also be without Thiago Almada for these games, forcing him to explore other options for that role. Among the possible replacements are young talents Franco Mastantuono and Nico Paz, both of whom could earn starting opportunities.

Possible Argentina lineup vs Venezuela

According to Argentine media reports, Scaloni’s plan is to give playing time to as many players as possible, starting the first match against Venezuela with his regular starters. For that reason, Messi could still start unless any physical discomfort prevents him from doing so.

This way, Scaloni could line up the following team for Argentina against Venezuela: Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez; Lionel Messi/Nico Paz/Franco Mastantuono and Julian Alvarez.

The second friendly, against Puerto Rico, could see the debut of several newcomers, including goalkeeper Facundo Cambeses (Racing Club), defender Lautaro Rivero (River Plate), midfielder Anibal Moreno (Palmeiras), and forward Jose Manuel Lopez (Palmeiras).

Following an impressive performance with Argentina, Lionel Messi once again headlines the national team’s roster for October’s friendlies. He took a breather during the last match against Ecuador but continues to dazzle with Inter Miami, staying injury-free in his latest outing. The veteran star’s stellar form positions him as the undisputed leader of the squad.

Many anticipated a renovated squad call up, but head coach Lionel Scaloni opted for a more conservative selection. Nonetheless, he introduced a touch of novelty with the inclusion of Facundo Cambeses, Lautaro Rivero, and Anibal Moreno. This trio injects new energy and potential into Argentina’s future endeavors.

Scaloni surprised fans by excluding five regulars, stirring conversations. Young prodigies Claudio Echeverry and Valentin Carboni were omitted for strategic reasons, while stalwarts Exequiel Palacios, Facundo Medina, and Juan Foyth are sidelined due to injuries. These absences hint at possible tactical adjustments in the upcoming fixtures.

How does Argentina’s complete roster look like for October friendlies in USA?

With the latest roster changes by Lionel Scaloni, Argentina uphold a robust lineup, promising an exciting display in their matches against Venezuela and Puerto Rico. These games serve as crucial opportunities to enhance team cohesion as they gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they aspire to reclaim the prestigious title. Here is the complete list, with Lionel Messi at the spearhead.

• Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez, Walter Benitez, Geronimo Rulli and Facundo Cambeses.
• Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolas Otamendi, Marcos Senesi, Lautaro Rivero, Nicolas Tagliafico and Marcos Acuña.
• Midfielders: Leandro Paredes, Anibal Moreno, Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Paz, Giovanni Lo Celso, Alexis Mac Allister, Thiago Almada and Franco Mastantuono
• Forwards: Giuliano Simeone, Nicolas Gonzalez, Lionel Messi, Jose Manuel Lopez, Julian Alvarez y Lautaro Martinez.

At the latest press conference, Lionel Scaloni praised Nicolas Otamendi, who will play his final World Cup Qualifiers match against Ecuador. He highlighted his commitment, saying, “He’s one of the players who has given us a huge helping hand as a team. He came to play injured, against his club’s decision. And that says a lot. He’s a very important player for us. He’ll be the captain against Ecuador.”

Even though young players often seize the spotlight, Nicolas Otamendi remains the steadfast anchor of Argentina’s recent global triumphs. Dominating the center-back position, he blends strength and poise, emerging as a pivotal locker-room leader. His impressive contributions earn him the national team captaincy for his final qualifiers match at 37, underscoring his enduring impact.

With Lionel Messi sidelined, speculation surrounds who will don the iconic No. 10 jersey for the national team. Although an official announcement remains pending, ESPN’s Leandro Alves reports that young talent Thiago Almada will wear the iconic jersey vs Ecuador. This temporary honor does not make him yet the official heir, as he joins a list of players who have worn No. 10 while the Inter Miami star continues to play for the national team.

Argentina’s HC Lionel Scaloni hints at key details before last 2026 World Cup qualifier vs Ecuador

Argentina have maintained an impressive pace in their 2026 World Cup qualifiers, clinching a spot in the tournament by Matchday 14. Despite this early success, head coach Lionel Scaloni has consistently relied on a core group of players in his starting lineup, making strategic adjustments as each game unfolds. As they prepare to face Ecuador, Scaloni has unveiled crucial details about his lineup.

“We’re playing against a team that’s been doing very well. First with (Gustavo) Alfaro and now with Sebastián (Beccacece). It’s one of the best teams in the world and has some great players. It’s a good test. As for the changes, there are two definite changes and we can still make a few more. We think it’s important to see other players,” Lionel Scaloni said at the press conference.

Scaloni will be missing not only Lionel Messi but also Cristian Romero due to accumulated yellow cards. This absence could allow players like Nicolas Paz, Exequiel Palacios, and Giuliano Simeone to step up against Ecuador. Such changes could signal Argentina’s broader strategy for the year: To aim for a high-quality rotation, suggesting that some players might enjoy more playing time in the near future ahead the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Following Inter Miami’s win over Orlando City in the 2025 Leagues Cup semifinal, Messi confirmed to a reporter that the Venezuela match would be his last World Cup qualifier in Argentina. But speaking at Wednesday’s press conference, Scaloni insisted they will do everything possible to make sure that’s not the case.

“Tomorrow will be a beautiful, emotional match. Surely it won’t be his last in Argentina, because we’ll make sure he plays another one if he decides to. It’s obvious that will happen. We’ll find the right moment because he deserves it,” Argentina’s coach said.

Messi stated it would be his final qualifier in Argentina since, after Thursday’s match, no additional qualifiers are scheduled in the country before the 2026 World Cup. Any games that arise would only be friendlies.

Looking further ahead, while neither FIFA nor CONMEBOL have made an official announcement, it is highly likely that Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay will not be required to participate in qualifying for the 2030 World Cup, as they will be among the hosts in the opening phase. That means Argentina, after this September FIFA window, would not play another qualifier until 2031—by which time Messi will be 44 years old.

Scaloni on Messi’s availability for upcoming matches

Amid the anticipation surrounding Messi’s final home qualifier, Lionel Scaloni confirmed that the Inter Miami star will start Thursday’s match against Venezuela. The Argentina coach also noted that, barring any unforeseen issues, Messi will travel with the squad to Ecuador for the final game of the qualifying campaign.

“He will start and he will also travel to Ecuador for the second game, like everyone else unless something happens,” Scaloni told reporters. In addition, the coach said younger prospects such as Nico Paz and Franco Mastantuono could get opportunities, with Argentina already having secured its place at the 2026 World Cup.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Scaloni made it clear his captain will be on the field. “How could he not play?” the coach said when asked about Messi’s availability.

“It’s a special match because of what Leo already said. Emotional, beautiful, because if it’s true that it will be his last in the Qualifiers, we have to enjoy it, and I’ll be the first one to do so. It’s a pleasure to have him, and I hope the fans at the stadium, and Leo himself, can enjoy it because they deserve it,” Scaloni added, confirming Messi will start on Thursday.

Despite the physical toll from Inter Miami’s recent 3-0 loss to the Seattle Sounders in the 2025 Leagues Cup final, Messi will be in the starting XI due to the significance of the occasion for him and the national team.

Beyond Messi, Scaloni noted that younger players such as Nico Paz and Franco Mastantuono could see opportunities, given that Argentina have already clinched their World Cup berth.

Will Messi travel to Ecuador?

Scaloni not only addressed Messi’s availability for the upcoming match against Venezuela, but also confirmed that, barring any setbacks, the Argentine captain will travel to Ecuador for the final game of the South American qualifiers. “He will start and he will also travel to Ecuador for the second game, like everyone else unless something happens,” Scaloni said at the press conference.

Initial reports had suggested Messi might skip the trip in order to stay fresh for a grueling stretch with Inter Miami, who face nine matches in 35 days. However, Scaloni dismissed those rumors, confirming that barring any unforeseen circumstances, the captain will be with the squad in Ecuador.

“In some press conferences, some have laughed because I always say ‘we look for a little melancholy’. The same thing happened with Fideo: let’s enjoy him while we have him. Whatever happens, happens. Now is the time to enjoy him. Don’t think about when he’s gone, or wait for him to make the announcement. He’s so important to the world of soccer, not just for Argentinians, that I think it’s important to enjoy him now,” Lionel Scaloni said, via TNT Sports Argentina.

With uncertainty looming, Lionel Messi might be approaching his final appearances with the Argentina national team as it faces Venezuela and Ecuador. Eager to conclude his illustrious international career on a high note, he could aim to become the top scorer in the CONMEBOL 2026 qualifiers. Currently trailing Luis Diaz by just one goal, he stands on the brink of surpassing him.

Lionel Messi already edged his name in the Argentina’s national team history

For much of his professional career, Lionel Messi grappled with a challenging relationship with Argentine national team fans, enduring jeers from supporters on several occasions. Criticism largely arose from his inability to clinch the 2014 World Cup, with fans questioning his impact in decisive moments. Despite this, he transformed his legacy into a legendary one in Argentine soccer history.

Lionel Messi solidified his legendary status in international soccer by becoming the all-time leading scorer for the Argentine national team, netting an impressive 112 goals over 193 games. This achievement surpasses the previous record held by the iconic Gabriel Batistuta, who amassed 55 goals in 78 appearances. The current star of Inter Miami also holds the record for the most assists in national team history, registering an outstanding 58 assists.

Beyond his impressive statistics, Messi achieved remarkable success with the Argentine national team. After several near-misses, he ultimately led Argentina to become World Cup winners in 2022 and celebrated victories in two Copa America tournaments. Additionally, he guided the team to a Finalissima title and secured a gold medal at the 2008 Olympic Games.

“I think the heat is going to be terribly hard. We already saw it at the Club World Cup… the schedules are going to be similar, at 3 or 4 in the afternoon, because they have to be shown in other countries, so it’s not too late, and that has a huge impact. The players are tired, exhausted after a whole season, and no thought is given to what’s best for them, which is to play at a time when the heat doesn’t have such an impact,” Lionel Scaloni said, via TNT Sports Argentina.

Throughout the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, players frequently expressed concerns over the sweltering heat during both matches and training sessions. Despite scheduled cooling breaks, the physical toll was evident. The Argentine national team, however, is well-acquainted with such conditions. In the 2024 Copa America, it faced equally intense heat across all venues but showcased remarkable resilience, ultimately clinching the championship title.

FIFPRO, the global players’ organization, has openly criticized the scheduling of certain Club World Cup matches. The association argues that any game played in conditions exceeding a Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) of 82.4°F should be postponed to ensure player safety. In contrast, FIFA has established a higher threshold of 89.6°F, a decision FIFPRO disputes, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino announces new 2026 World Cup measure after heat concerns

Following the considerable heat issues at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, many anticipated changes to the match schedules due to games played under direct sunlight. While the scheduling will remain unchanged as per Lionel Scaloni, FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced a new measure for the 2026 World Cup that could significantly impact the tournament.

“Every criticism we receive is a source for us to study and analyse what can do better… Cooling breaks are very important and we will see what we can do, but we have stadiums with roofs and we will definitely use these stadiums during the day next year,” Infantino said in July of 2025, as reported by ESPN.

This adjustment seems logical, yet Chelsea and Fluminense faced off in the semifinals of the 2025 Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium in sweltering 96°F heat—a venue without a roof. Consequently, this shift could result in venues like Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, and Vancouver hosting more matches, as FIFA prioritizes stadiums with roofs for the 2026 World Cup.