Argentina are preparing for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and defend their title of being the current world champions. Argentina are looking to create history to become the third team after Italy (1934 and 1938) and Brasil (1952 and 1962) to defend the World Cup. As per the FIFA World Cup draw that took place on December 5, 2025, the defending champions will lock horns with Austria, Jordan, and Algeria in Group J.
Lionel Scaloni gives hint on Lionel Messi's participation in the upcoming FIFA WC
After the draw was announced, Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni said that his team will not underestimate any team in the upcoming tournament. Scaloni also remembered the memories of the Argentina vs Saudi Arabia vs Saudi Arabia game from the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Scaloni also gave insight on the possibilities of Lionel Messi playing the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mystery around Lionel Messi's participation in FIFA World Cup 2026
Lionel Messi's participation in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup remains uncertain. Messi has been quite open about taking a final decision on his international career during Inter Miami's pre-season. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was recently questioned about Messi's presence in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, and he dropped an honest answer about the iconic player.
"In principle, everything is going well, but six months is a long time. There is still time. We hope he's all well and that he makes the best decision for himself and for the national team. He will decide, and we will support whatever he decides," said Scaloni when asked about Lionel Messi's plans about the World Cup.
Scaloni also expressed his frustration about the date of the 2026 Finalissima in which Argentina and Spain will face each other. Scaloni said that the match could have been played a bit earlier.
Lionel Messi on the brink of creating history
If Messi decides to play the 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup, he and Cristiano Ronaldo will be the joint-first players to participate in their sixth World Cup tournament.