World Cup Decision? Lionel Messi Meets With Argentina Boss to Discuss 2026 Plans

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni admitted to holding a private meeting with Lionel Messi, where the duo reportedly discussed World Cup plans. 

The Albiceleste are busy piecing together plans for their World Cup title defense. All-time great Messi is expected to form part of that trophy bid amid talk that he might retire from international duty before the tournament.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has stopped short of confirming his involvement. He is, however, plying his club trade with MLS Cup winners Inter Miami and is being tipped by many to grace another major tournament on North American soil.

Messi has said of his World Cup plans: "I hope I can be there. I've said before that I'd love to be there. At worst, I'll be there watching it live, but it will be special. The World Cup is special for everyone, for any country — especially for us, because we live it in a completely different way."

He added to ESPN on the talks that he has held with Scaloni: "The truth is, we've been talking about it. He understands, and we've discussed it a lot. He always tells me that he would like me to be there in any role. We have a relationship of great trust, and we can talk about everything."

Scaloni has now held a further round of discussions with his talismanic captain. Messi has been back in Argentina during the MLS postseason.

Scaloni told AFA Estudio: "I met up with Leo because we were close by. We had coffee. Those of us who know him know he'll never relax. He's a born competitor. He always wants to be there. That's very important for his teammates — that a captain behaves that way. He always comes to play. It's a legacy he's going to leave. Those who come after him have to take it up."

Scaloni admits to having "a list of