Argentina return to action this month with two friendlies in the United States, but not all fans are happy. Head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Lionel Messi may not play — or, at best, feature for only a few minutes — as the team prioritizes his physical recovery. The decision has frustrated thousands of supporters eager to see the captain of the Albiceleste in action.

What Did Scaloni Say About Messi?

Speaking at a press conference, the World Cup–winning manager made his stance clear regarding the Inter Miami star’s fitness:

“The idea is not to take risks. These are important games for the national team, but they’re still friendlies,” said Scaloni.

The 37-year-old forward has been dealing with minor physical issues after a demanding MLS season, and Argentina’s coaching staff prefers to rest him rather than risk aggravating any injury. Scaloni’s words, while sensible, dashed the hopes of many fans who had purchased tickets expecting to see Messi on the field.

Argentina’s Upcoming Fixtures

With qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup already secured, Argentina will use this international window to test new players and tactical systems rather than push its veterans.

Upcoming matches:

• Argentina vs. Venezuela – Miami
• Argentina vs. Puerto Rico – Chicago

These friendlies will serve as evaluation matches, allowing Scaloni to experiment with different lineups and give opportunities to players fighting for a place in the squad ahead of the World Cup.

Why Did Scaloni Choose to Rest Messi?

The decision is purely precautionary. After a long campaign with Inter Miami, Messi has logged heavy minutes and endured a tight match schedule. Scaloni, fully aware of how crucial the No. 10 remains to Argentina’s title defense, decided to prioritize recovery over spectacle.

Furthermore, the coaching staff sees this as the perfect chance to broaden the squad’s depth and evaluate young talents in a lower-pressure environment.

While fans in Miami and Chicago may leave disappointed, the message from Scaloni is clear: the focus is on keeping Messi healthy for what truly matters — the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina will once again aim to conquer the world.