World Cup 2026: Messi Fit To Face Algeria – Argentina Coach

Argentina coach, Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that Lionel Messi has fully recovered from his recent hamstring discomfort and is fit and available to face Algeria in the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

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The Inter Miami star is ready to go and is expected to make history by playing in his sixth World Cup tournament.

He also declared that goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who has been nursing a fractured finger, and striker Julián Álvarez, who was dealing with an ankle issue, will both be available for the opening fixture.

“Calm because it’s just a game of football,” Scaloni said. “We have the experience of the last World Cup; the first game is not fundamental. It’s important, but it doesn’t end with the first game. We are good; we are calm. We are facing a good team with great players. But we are calm; we are arriving at a good moment. Everyone wants to see Messi on the field, playing. He excited everyone, not just Argentines.”

The coach emphasized that he sees nothing negative regarding the captain’s preparation. He noted that Messi has been in different conditions in the past and has always shown up, stating that he has been monumental for the squad and will be even more so now.

“Emiliano is okay; Emiliano is available for tomorrow,” Scaloni added. “If he does the same thing he did yesterday and the day before, I think he will play. Julian had an ankle problem, but his recovery has been good, and for tomorrow he is available and an option. There are no injured players.”

The 38-year-old Inter Miami star is set to feature at his sixth World Cup this summer with Argentina while making his 200th international appearance and his 27th at the World Cup.