Post by : Shakul

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has offered a positive update regarding Lionel Messi’s fitness after concerns emerged over the football superstar’s injury ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Scaloni stated that the initial reports surrounding Messi’s condition are “not that bad” and expressed hope that upcoming medical tests will confirm the encouraging diagnosis.

Messi recently suffered muscle fatigue in his left hamstring during Inter Miami’s dramatic 6-4 victory over Philadelphia in Major League Soccer. The Argentine captain left the match in the 73rd minute, raising fears about his availability just weeks before the World Cup begins.

Despite being 38 years old and preparing for what could become his sixth World Cup appearance, Messi remains the central figure in Argentina’s squad as the defending champions aim to retain the title they won in Qatar four years ago.

Speaking to Argentine television channel DSports, Scaloni admitted that the coaching staff would have preferred no injury concerns at all but emphasized that the situation currently appears manageable. He said further examinations would provide a clearer understanding of Messi’s physical condition in the coming days.

Scaloni revealed that he had been watching the Inter Miami match from the Argentine Football Association headquarters and felt relieved when Messi himself requested to leave the field instead of risking a more serious injury. Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos later explained that the heavy pitch conditions and accumulated fatigue played a role in the decision.

Inter Miami released an official statement confirming that Messi’s return to full activity will depend on his recovery progress and medical evaluations. However, the club did not provide a specific timeline regarding his comeback or World Cup readiness.

Argentina are scheduled to begin their FIFA World Cup campaign on June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City. The team will also face Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 28 during the group stage of the tournament.

Before the World Cup begins, Argentina are set to play two international friendly matches in the United States against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9. These games are expected to help the coaching staff assess squad fitness and final preparations.

Although Messi has not officially confirmed his participation in the 2026 World Cup, football experts widely expect him to return for what would equal the record of six World Cup appearances. Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo and Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa are also expected to achieve the same milestone.

#Global News #World Update #Sports #Football