Whether Lionel Messi will play in the 2026 World Cup remains a question on everyone’s mind. Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has spoken about the issue several times before, repeatedly saying that the decision rests solely with Messi. Once again, the World Cup-winning coach echoed the same stance.

Messi himself had earlier told the media that his participation in the 23rd edition of world football’s biggest tournament would depend on his form and fitness. The World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is set to begin next June. Even with six months to go, Scaloni is still unsure whether Messi will feature in the tournament to be held in North America. The Argentina coach is firmly against putting any pressure on his team’s biggest star over the issue.

Scaloni recently met Messi, where the two discussed various matters. Speaking to the Argentine Football Association, Scaloni shed light on those conversations. “I sat down and had coffee with Messi. I also want to speak to the others in the squad. With only six months left until the World Cup, it’s important to communicate the overall situation of the team,” he said.

On the question of Messi playing in the World Cup, Scaloni added, “We didn’t talk about the World Cup. Let’s see what happens. He said there is still time, so it wouldn’t be right to put pressure on him. I want to leave the decision entirely up to him.”

Scaloni also indicated that members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad would be given priority. “They are at an ideal stage right now. Nothing has happened that would force us to change our decisions,” he said. “We have called up many players, and on-field performance will be taken very seriously. Many who played in the last World Cup will return to the squad. They have earned it through merit, and they deserve to be part of the fight to defend the title.”