Argentina national team head coach Lionel Scaloni has admitted that team captain Lionel Messi will not arrive at the training camp in peak physical condition ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The Inter Miami star suffered a hamstring injury during a recent MLS match, according to a report by Goal.com.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was substituted during a dramatic match against Philadelphia Union. Although initial medical examinations indicated the injury is not overly serious, Scaloni confirmed that the player's condition is not 100 percent ideal. According to the coach, they must now wait for the results of further tests.
Inter Miami announced that the captain is experiencing discomfort due to muscle fatigue in his left leg. Nevertheless, the coaching staff hopes that Lionel Messi will return to action before the opening group stage match against Algeria on June 16.
The Argentina national team is facing concerns not only regarding Messi but also injuries to other key players. Specifically, Tottenham defender Cristian Romero is dealing with a knee injury, while Atlético Madrid member Nahuel Molina is facing muscle-related issues.
Additionally, goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is battling a fractured finger. Scaloni must announce the final squad by June 2, but the recovery process of key players has become a major headache for the coach.
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