Lionel Scaloni Comments on Messi’s World Cup Future

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni addressed questions about Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup. Speaking ahead of the qualifier against Ecuador, Scaloni confirmed Nicolás Otamendi will captain the team. On Messi, he said no private discussions have taken place and emphasized Messi will take his time to decide, adding that any decision will be respected.

When the Argentina national team coach Lionel Scaloni faced the media ahead of the World Cup qualifier against Ecuador, much of the focus turned to Lionel Messi’s future with the Albiceleste. Scaloni confirmed that Nicolás Otamendi will captain Argentina in the clash, while he also discussed the role of younger players being integrated into the squad.

The inevitable question about Messi’s potential participation in the 2026 World Cup was raised, especially after Messi had hinted that he would take time before making a decision following Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Venezuela. Scaloni responded carefully, noting that he had not personally spoken to Messi about the matter and only knew of the comments the captain had made publicly. He emphasized that Messi must be given the space and freedom to decide on his own terms, stating that whatever the forward ultimately chooses will be respected by the team and coaching staff.

Scaloni’s remarks underline the delicate balance of preparing for the future with emerging talent, while still leaving the door open for Messi’s possible presence at what would be his sixth World Cup. Argentina now looks ahead to its qualifier against Ecuador with Otamendi leading the team.