The head coach of the Argentina national football team, Lionel Scaloni, has stated that any decision reached by Lionel Messi on participating in the 2026 World Cup or not would be respected.

Scaloni made the declaration amidst uncertainties surrounding Lionel Messi’s potential absence from the 2026 World Cup.

Naija News understands Messi played his last official match for Argentina in a 3-0 victory over Venezuela on September 4, where he emotionally waved goodbye to fans.

However, while speaking during the post-match interview, the talismanic forward said he is yet to make a final decision on representing Argentina in the upcoming World Cup tournament or otherwise.

“It’s an exciting time, and I’m motivated to play in it,” Messi commented in light of the World Cup. “As I always say, I go day by day, assessing how I feel. When I feel good, I enjoy it; but when I don’t, I prefer not to be there. So, we’ll see how it goes. I haven’t made a decision yet; I will finish the season, go through preseason, and then we’ll see how I feel.”

Commenting based on Messi’s interview, Scaloni stated that he has not had a discussion with Messi on his availability for the World Cup but would respect the player’s final decision on the matter.

“I’m still not sure about the percentage of the list. We have a base, there are players who are consistently in the mix, and not much will change from there. I haven’t spoken with Leo about the World Cup. I know what he said and he will take this time calmly. Whatever he decides will be fine,” he said.

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