Messi is in Argentina's squad and faces a battle against…

Messi is in Argentina's squad and faces a battle against time

31.05.2026 12:00 HotInfo

Lionel Messi is in Argentina's 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup and, as captain, is set to lead the defending champions at the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The 38-year-old Inter Miami forward is heading to his sixth World Cup, which would equal the record number of World Cup appearances. teraz.sk ↗

Messi's inclusion in the squad comes after health question marks in recent days. In the MLS match between Inter Miami and Philadelphia Union, he asked to be substituted in the 73rd minute due to leg pain. Subsequent reports spoke of problems with his left thigh, caused by overload and muscle fatigue. Inter Miami did not initially specify the extent of the injury, but later reports suggested it was not a more serious problem. sport.cz - hokej ↗

The duel with Philadelphia ended in a 6:4 victory for Inter Miami. The match was also notable for an extraordinarily high-scoring first half, which ended in a 4:4 draw, with Luis Suárez being a standout figure for the home side with a hat-trick. However, Messi's forced substitution raised concerns, particularly because it came shortly before the start of Argentina's preparations for the World Cup. SITA ↗

Before the tournament, Argentina still has preparatory matches against Honduras on June 7 and against Iceland on June 10. It is not yet clear whether Messi will be available from the start of preparations and in what condition he will enter the championship. The upcoming development of his health condition and his ability to join the team program will be decisive. idnes.cz ↗

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