Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has revealed that Lionel Messi is making good progress in his recovery and could return to action before the country’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking ahead of Argentina’s friendly matches, Scaloni disclosed that the Inter Miami star has resumed partial training with the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury suffered during his club’s last game.
According to the coach, Messi is no longer training separately and could get a few minutes on the pitch in one of Argentina’s upcoming warm-up fixtures if his recovery continues as expected.
The World Cup holders are scheduled to face Honduras in Texas before taking on Iceland in Alabama as part of their final preparations for the tournament.
Scaloni expressed optimism about Messi’s condition, saying the forward’s improvement has brought relief to the coaching staff and supporters ahead of the competition.
Beyond Messi, Argentina are also dealing with several injury concerns within the squad.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been ruled out of both friendly matches after suffering a finger fracture, although he is expected to be fit for Argentina’s World Cup opener against Algeria.
Defenders Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel are also recovering from muscle injuries, while Cristian Romero has returned to training after a knee problem but is yet to regain full match fitness.
Midfielder Nicolas Paz remains a major doubt after sustaining a knee injury, while Leandro Paredes and Julian Alvarez are also being monitored after arriving in camp with fitness concerns.
Scaloni indicated that the coaching staff will avoid taking unnecessary risks with injured players during the friendlies, stressing that their focus remains on having the squad fully fit for the World Cup.
The coach added that the coming days will provide a clearer picture of the players’ fitness levels and readiness for the tournament.
Argentina will begin the defence of their World Cup title on June 16 when they face Algeria in Kansas City.
Source: AFP.
