Leave him alone — Argentina coach refuses to confirm Messi's participation at next World Cup

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni recently commented on the possibility of Lionel Messi playing in the 2026 World Cup. 

The 37-year-old became a world champion during the 2022 edition of the tournament and was expected to retire from international football immediately after. However, he stayed on, saying he wanted to enjoy playing as a world champion for as long as he could.

The next Mundial is in a year's time, sparking questions about the possibility of Messi playing in his sixth World Cup tournament. 

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The Inter Miami star has refused to give a definite answer when asked about participation in the next World Cup. He maintains that he will decide based on how he feels before the global showpiece. 

Argentina recently sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup and marked it with a statement 4-1 victory over eternal rivals Brazil. 

Messi was not in action, as given his advanced age, he has had to ration his game time lately. Hence, he did not join the team for this international break, as they had all but wrapped up qualification. 

After the victory against Brazil, Scaloni was asked about the possibility of Messi participating at the next World Cup, he said: "We're taking it game by game. I don't want to be dealing with that issue all year. We have to leave him alone and let him decide. He'll decide, and let's not drive him crazy."