Buenos Aires: The future of Lionel Messi at the FIFA World Cup 2026 remains uncertain, but Lionel Scaloni insists it would be a “privilege” if the legendary forward decides to lead Argentina national team in their title defence.
Speaking after Argentina’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Zambia, Scaloni praised Messi’s influence while acknowledging that the 38-year-old has yet to confirm whether he will participate in the tournament scheduled across North America this year from 11 June – 19 July 2026 .
“It would be a privilege if Leo decides to play in the World Cup,” Scaloni said. “We all want him to enjoy it. He’s more relaxed now because he’s already won one, but his desire to share the experience is still there.”
Messi, who currently captains Inter Miami CF, delivered another standout performance, assisting Julián Álvarez before adding a goal himself. The strike marked his 116th international goal and pushed his overall career tally beyond 900 — further cementing his legendary status.
Scaloni even hinted that the milestone-laden forward could approach the unprecedented 1,000-goal mark if he continues playing. “We’ll see how much longer he plays,” the coach added, keeping fans guessing about the superstar’s future.
Argentina head into the 2026 tournament as defending champions after lifting the World Cup in 2022 and following it up with Copa América success in 2024. Despite the strong run, Scaloni urged caution.
“It will be a tough World Cup, very difficult. Everyone must be in top physical and mental shape,” he warned.
Emerging players are also pushing for places in the squad, with young midfielders and attackers eager to break into a team still built around Messi’s brilliance. Yet the biggest question remains whether the iconic No. 10 will make one last appearance on football’s grandest stage.
For fans worldwide, the possibility of Messi returning for another World Cup is tantalising — a chance to witness one of football’s greatest ever players attempt to defend his crown and perhaps script one final chapter in an extraordinary career.
Source: ESPN
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