Scaloni Confirms Messi Won’t Be Fully Fit for World Cup 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has admitted that Lionel Messi will not arrive at the squad fully fit for their 2026 World Cup preparations. The Inter Miami star suffered hamstring fatigue in the recent match and may need extra time before joining camp. Scaloni said initial tests were “not entirely bad” but conceded that having Messi in peak condition was unlikely. He also highlighted broader injury concerns across the squad, from goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez’s fractured finger to knee and muscle issues affecting several defenders and midfielders. To cover any further setbacks, Scaloni has expanded his squad for upcoming friendlies in the United States. Fresh call-ups include young talents from River Plate, Boca Juniors, Vélez Sarsfield, Rosario Central, Hamburg and Palmeiras.

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