Argentina's head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has voiced concerns regarding the fitness of several La Albiceleste players, notably captain Lionel Messi, as he prepares to finalize his 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The injury scare emerged when Messi requested a substitution in the 73rd minute during Inter Miami CF's 6-4 victory over the Philadelphia Union, sparking widespread apprehension about his availability for the upcoming summer tournament.
Inter Miami later issued a medical update clarifying the issue: 'Following additional medical examinations conducted this Monday, the preliminary diagnosis suggests an overload related to muscle fatigue in his left hamstring. The timeline for his return to physical activity will be contingent upon his clinical and functional recovery.'
Speaking on Messi's condition in an interview with DSports, Scaloni offered a cautious but hopeful outlook. 'The initial updates are not entirely negative; we must wait to observe his progress, pending the outcomes of further tests to verify the initial medical assessments,' Scaloni stated.
However, the manager acknowledged that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will not be at peak fitness when the squad regroups for its pre-tournament camp. Scaloni also revealed that Messi is not the only player currently racing against the clock. 'We all hoped Messi could join the squad in peak condition, but that is not the case,' Scaloni said. 'It is not only him; several players are still in the process of recovering from injuries. Our primary focus now is on their rehabilitation to ensure they arrive at the World Cup in optimal form.'
Defending champions Argentina face a tight timeline to get their talisman fit before the global showpiece kicks off. Drawn into Group J, La Albiceleste are scheduled to face Algeria, Austria, and Jordan in the group stage matches.
