Argentina captain Lionel Messi is expected to make his first appearance in the team`s final World Cup preparation match against Iceland on Tuesday, providing a major boost ahead of the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Messi is likely to feature in the friendly in Auburn, Alabama, although the coaching staff has yet to determine how long he will remain on the field.
The eight-time Ballon d`Or winner missed Argentina`s previous warm-up match against Honduras, remaining on the bench throughout the game despite taking part in pre-match activities.
Messi joined the national team camp after dealing with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring. The injury concern emerged during his final appearance for Inter Miami before the Major League Soccer break for the World Cup.
Argentina`s medical staff has closely monitored his recovery, and Scaloni indicated that the team will carefully manage the veteran forward`s playing time to avoid any setbacks before the tournament begins.
The coach also provided encouraging updates on several other players who had recently been dealing with injuries. Midfielder Nico Paz and defenders Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel have returned to full availability and are in contention to play against Iceland.
Meanwhile, striker Julián Álvarez and midfielder Leandro Paredes are both progressing well in their recoveries. Scaloni said Álvarez`s ankle issue is improving, while Paredes is expected to rejoin full training soon.
Argentina are still assessing options to replace defender Leonardo Balerdi, who was ruled out of the World Cup after suffering a calf injury. Scaloni said a final decision on a replacement is expected after the Iceland match.
The defending world champions will begin their World Cup campaign on June 16 with a Group J match against Algeria. Argentina will then face Austria and Jordan as they look to advance to the knockout stages.
With Messi nearing full fitness and several injured players returning, Argentina appear to be building momentum ahead of their title defence.
