Market Desk (sports): Lionel Scaloni has told Lionel Messi “the door will always be open” for the Argentina captain to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Messi last year got his hands on the trophy he so desperately craved, lifting the WC in Qatar following victory over France in a thrilling final.
He also became the first man to win two Golden Balls as he inspired his team in what he said would be his last WC.
The genius will be nearing 40 when Argentina look to defend their title in a tournament that will be staged in the US, Canada and Mexico in 2026 but head coach Scaloni has not given up hope of being able to call upon the forward.
“I think Messi can get to the next WC,” he said. “It will depend a lot on what he wants, on whether he feels good.
In a recent interview, Messi also said that the 2026 WC will be very difficult for my age. I love to play football. As long as I feel I am in good shape and enjoying the game, I will continue to play. The next WC is still a long way off. But not sure if I will play or not! It will depend on my fitness.
