Lionel Scaloni on Messi's chances at the 2026 World Cup: 'We shouldn't overload him'

Lionel Scaloni's comments on Messi's chances

According to Главком: The head coach of the Argentina national team, Lionel Scaloni, commented on Lionel Messi's chances of participating in the 2026 World Cup. Scaloni noted that it is not necessary to overload the player, as there is still time before the tournament begins.

“Regarding the World Cup, we will see later, we have talked a lot about many things, but not about this, because there is still time. We shouldn't overload him; let him relax and make the decision he has to make,” said the coach.

Messi's debut and Ukraine's success

Lionel Messi made his World Cup debut in 2006, and at the last tournament, which took place in 2022, he won the World Cup title. Scaloni also emphasized that those who know Messi realize that he always strives for victory.

“Those who know him understand that he never relaxes. He is a born fighter, wants to win, wants to play, always wants to be there,” noted Scaloni.

At the same time, the Ukrainian national team completed the first stage of the European qualification for the 2026 World Cup. In the decisive match, the Ukrainian team defeated Iceland with a score of 2:0. The goals in this match were scored by:

• Zubkov in the 83rd minute
• Hutsulyak in the 90+3 minute

The semifinal playoff between Ukraine and Sweden is scheduled for March 26, 2026.

Scaloni's comments on Messi indicate the importance of a cautious approach to the star player, considering his significant contribution to the team and age. Meanwhile, the successful performance of the Ukrainian national team in the European qualifiers indicates the increasing competitiveness of Ukrainian football on the international stage. Both teams have their goals for the upcoming World Cup, raising interest in their future performances in qualification matches.