Will Messi play in the 2026 World Cup? Scaloni's words leave fans in suspense

The possibility of seeing Lionel Messi, the Argentine star who captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world, play in another World Cup is a question that resonates strongly in the footballing world. Lionel Scaloni, the coach of the Argentine national team, has given statements that fuel the hopes of the fans, but has also stressed the need to be cautious and let time pass.

"Messi wants to play in the World Cup," Scaloni said in an interview with DSports, a phrase that ignites the hope of Argentinians who dream of seeing their greatest idol display his talent in a new World Cup. However, the coach was also cautious when he pointed out: "But to assure it later, we have to let time pass, see how one is getting there."

These words from Scaloni reflect the uncertainty surrounding Messi's participation in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in Canada, the United States and Mexico. While Messi's desire to play in the tournament is an important factor, there are other elements that also come into play, such as his physical condition, his motivation and the decisions he makes in the future.

Messi's age and the time factor

Lionel Messi is currently 35 years old and, for the 2026 World Cup, he will be 39. While it is true that Messi has proven to be an exceptional player who defies the passage of time with his talent and dedication, it is inevitable that the age factor will play an important role in his decision to play or not the next World Cup.

Time will tell if Messi feels with the energy and motivation necessary to face a new World Cup challenge. Scaloni stressed that "he knows very well what we think," which suggests that the coaching staff of the Argentine national team is willing to support Messi in his decision, whatever it may be.

Messi's happiness as a priority

Beyond Messi's participation in the 2026 World Cup, Scaloni made it clear that his main concern is the player's happiness. "I'm not worried, all I want is for him to be happy," he said, showing that the relationship between them goes beyond the professional and focuses on Messi's personal well-being.

These words from Scaloni highlight the importance of valuing players as people and respecting their decisions, even if they do not coincide with the wishes of the fans or the media. Messi's happiness is a fundamental factor to take into account and Scaloni is very clear about this.

The future of the Argentine national team with or without Messi

The possibility of Messi playing or not in the 2026 World Cup raises a question about the future of the Argentine national team. If Messi decides to play, the team will have an undisputed leader and a player capable of making a difference in any match. If he decides not to play, the national team will have to face the challenge of building a competitive team without its greatest figure.

Scaloni has proven to be a coach capable of adapting to changes and getting the best out of each player, so there is no doubt that he will find the formula to maintain the level of the Albiceleste, whether Messi plays or not in the next World Cup.

Conclusion

Scaloni's statements about the possibility of Messi playing in the 2026 World Cup have generated great expectations among Argentine fans. While Messi's desire to play in the tournament is an important factor, there are other elements that also come into play, such as his physical condition, his motivation and the decisions he makes in the future.

The most important thing, as Scaloni stressed, is to respect Messi's decision and prioritize his happiness. Time will tell if Messi will play or not in the 2026 World Cup, but what is certain is that his legacy in the Argentine national team is already indelible and his name will be engraved in the history of world football.