Messi Injury Update: Will Lionel Messi Play in FIFA World Cup 2026?
Lionel Messi, widely expected to play in what will almost certainly be his final World Cup at 38 years of age, sat out Argentina's pre-tournament friendly due to a left hamstring strain suffered on May 26 while playing for Inter Miami. The news sent shockwaves through the football world, raising fears that the greatest player of all time might miss part — or all — of Argentina's title defence.
What Happened?
Inter Miami confirmed the injury in an official statement, describing it as "an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring." The club said the timeline for his return would depend on his clinical and functional progress.
What Did the Argentina Manager Say?
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni addressed the media and provided a cautiously optimistic update:
"Leo is doing well. He trained for a part with the group, which is important. He's not fully separated; he's coming along. He may be part of the friendly matches, getting some minutes in these two friendlies. We'll see if it's the one tomorrow or the next one. But he's doing a lot better and that gives us tranquility."
Scaloni had earlier revealed that at least six Argentina players were in a race against time to be fit for the tournament — not just Messi.
Argentina's World Cup Campaign
Argentina open their World Cup campaign on June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City. As defending champions, they are attempting to become only the third team in history to retain the FIFA World Cup title. Of the 26-man squad, 17 players were part of the 2022 Qatar World Cup winning squad. Defender Cristian Romero, who had suffered a knee MCL injury late in the club season, also recovered in time to make the squad.
