Lionel Messi is still contemplating whether he will participate in the upcoming FIFA World Cup this summer, with only 81 days remaining until Argentina begins their title defense, according to coach Lionel Scaloni.
“That’s a question better directed at him [Messi],” Scaloni responded when asked about the 38-year-old’s plans for the tournament, set to be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Messi was named Player of the Tournament at the 2022 World Cup and is Argentina’s all-time leading scorer with 115 goals.
“As far as I’m concerned, I’ve made my position clear,” Scaloni added. “I’ll do everything possible to ensure he’s there. For the good of football, he should participate. Ultimately, it’s up to him, based on his mindset and physical fitness.”
“It’s tough because it’s not just Argentinians who wish to see him play; everyone wants to witness his skills,” he continued.
“I hope he will join us. However, the final call rests with him. He has earned that right to decide calmly, and there’s no need to rush. We trust that whatever he chooses will be in the best interests of both the team and himself. Our hope is for him to be present.”
Scaloni confirmed that Messi will play against Mauritania on March 27 and Zambia on March 31 during this international window. Both matches will take place at Boca Juniors’ La Bombonera stadium.
“Messi will participate in both games, but we’ll determine if he starts,” he said.
Originally, Argentina was set to face Spain in the Finalissima in Qatar on March 27, but the match was canceled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
“Having two extra matches at home is a great opportunity for us Argentinians to see him [Messi] on the field and enjoy the magic he brings,” Scaloni remarked.
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Messi is among the 16 World Cup winners included in Scaloni’s 30-man roster. Newly capped defenders Tomás Palacios and Gabriel Rojas, as well as Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni, who made his senior debut in November, are also part of the squad.
“These are the players in principle,” stated Scaloni. “However, we remain open to considering recent additions whom we’ve been monitoring. The final selection will depend on their current condition, fitness, and form; it’s vital they are as close to their potential as possible.”
“We’ve communicated this to them and clarified during our first meeting. They understand what is at stake. We are grateful to those who contributed to our past successes, but we are gearing up for another World Cup and need players who are fit and ready, and that will be our focus when finalizing the roster.”
Argentina kicks off their World Cup title defense on June 16 against Algeria, followed by matches against Austria and Jordan in Group J.