Argentina is proving its ability to succeed without Lionel Messi, raising questions about the 37-year-old’s participation in the 2026 World Cup.
After securing a spot in the tournament, speculation lingers over whether Messi will return to pursue a second consecutive title.
Coach Lionel Scaloni addressed the situation, urging patience and giving Messi the time to make his decision. Scaloni emphasized, “We must go one game at a time… He will decide whenever he wants.”
On Tuesday, Argentina delivered a stunning 4-1 victory over Brazil in World Cup qualifying. Messi was absent due to a muscle injury, yet the team showed no signs of struggle, with striker Julián Álvarez commenting, “With Messi, we might have scored two or three more goals.”
With Argentina leading the South American qualifiers and already assured of a spot in the 2026 World Cup, midfielder Rodrigo de Paul echoed the nation’s sentiment: “The best of our teams is always when the No. 10 is playing, because he is the greatest of all time.”
