Messi hints at possibility of attending World Cup, coach Lionel Scaloni says something surprising

2026 World Cup qualifying schedule in South America

6:00 AM, September 10th: Ecuador vs. Argentina

6:30 AM, September 10th: Bolivia vs. Brazil

6:30 AM, September 10th: Chile vs. Uruguay

6:30 AM, September 10th: Venezuela vs. Colombia

6:30 AM, September 10th: Peru vs. Paraguay

"I haven't spoken to Leo about the World Cup. I only know what he's said, and I think he'll need time to calm down and think it over."

"He deserves more time to think. Whatever Leo decides, everything will be fine. We need to leave Leo alone and not say anything more," coach Lionel Scaloni said at a press conference before Argentina's match against Ecuador in the final round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America tomorrow morning (6am September 10, Vietnam time).

Messi úp mở khả năng dự World Cup, HLV Lionel Scaloni nói điều bất ngờ - 1 — Messi wants to take some time to rest before making a decision on whether to represent Argentina at the 2026 World Cup (Photo: Getty).

Previously, after Argentina's 3-0 victory over Venezuela on September 4th, Messi confirmed that this was his last home game for La Albiceleste and also announced the possibility of not participating in the 2026 World Cup in order to rest and give others a chance.

"I'm trying to stay relaxed, and above all, be honest with myself. When I feel comfortable, I enjoy it, but when I don't feel comfortable, frankly, I don't find it enjoyable. So I wouldn't go to the World Cup if I wasn't feeling well. So, let's wait and see."

"I haven't decided about the World Cup yet. I'll finish the season, then I'll have pre-season, and I'll have six months to decide. Hopefully I'll have a good pre-season in 2026 and finish the MLS season well, and then I'll decide," Messi said about the possibility of him not participating in the 2026 World Cup with Argentina.

With 38 points from 17 matches played, Argentina is guaranteed to top the South American qualifying round. Therefore, coach Lionel Scaloni has pledged to give opportunities to young players when they visit Ecuador's Guayaquil stadium tomorrow.

"Argentina will have some personnel changes, with players who rarely play on the field this time starting. Many young players have also improved recently, giving the team more options, and importantly, the way of playing and the identity of Argentina will not change, no matter who we choose to play," the 47-year-old coach affirmed.