Lionel Messi has not yet decided whether he will play for Argentina at this summer’s World Cup.
Messi, 38, has been named in Argentina’s squad for friendlies against Mauritania (March 27) and Zambia (April 1).
Lionel Scaloni has confirmed he will play in both games, but questions remain as to whether he will be included in La Albiceleste’s title defense in the United States, Canada and Mexico, starting with Algeria in Kansas City on June 17.
“This is a question for him, but as far as I’m concerned, you already know what I’m thinking. I’ll do everything I can to make sure he takes part,” Scaloni said at a press conference when asked if Messi would take part in the World Cup.
“I believe he has to be there for the sake of football, but it’s not for me to decide. It’s up to him, how he feels in his heart and how he’s fit.”
“It’s difficult because not only Argentines want to see him, but everyone wants to see him.
“And we, as his coaches, have the dilemma of whether he can play the whole game when he’s out there.
“I want him to be there, but he’s the one who decides. I’m not going to stand here and say, ‘Let’s see if we pick him.’
“He has earned the right to make a calm decision. We are not in a hurry. We know that whatever he decides is best for him and for the team. We hope he will be there, but we can’t say more than that.”
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Messi has appeared in the past five World Cups, helped Argentina win the trophy in 2022, and holds the record for the most appearances in the tournament’s history with 26 appearances.
Last October, Inter Miami’s Messi admitted there was no guarantee he would take part in Argentina’s title defense this year.
Messi said, “It’s special to be able to participate in the World Cup. I would love to participate.”
“If I’m going to be there, I want to be there, be healthy and play an important role helping the team.
Lionel Messi of Argentina lifts the trophy in Qatari robe after winning the World Cup final
“When I start preseason next year at Inter (Miami), I will evaluate it day by day and see if I can really give 100% and if I can be useful before making a decision.
“I’m really looking forward to it because it’s the World Cup. We won the last tournament so it’s great to be able to defend on the field again because it’s always a dream to play for the national team.”
The debate over Messi’s involvement in the World Cup began on the same day Inter Miami unveiled the Leo Messi Stand at their new stadium.
“Recognizing someone doesn’t necessarily mean closing a chapter; sometimes it means recognizing that you are witnessing something unique,” the MLS club said in a statement.
“Inter Miami is thrilled to announce that the East Stand in our new state-of-the-art home will be dedicated to the greatest player of all time.”
