Argentina captain Lionel Messi is set to start his country’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after fully recovering from injury, according to reports.
The news will come as a major boost for Argentina, who entered the tournament as defending champions following their historic triumph at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni has reportedly decided to include Messi in the starting lineup after receiving positive feedback on the veteran forward’s fitness.
Messi had been managing an injury concern in recent weeks, raising doubts over his availability for Argentina’s first match.
However, reports indicate that the 39-year-old has now completed his recovery and has informed the coaching staff that he is fully available for selection in their opening game against Algeria.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains the heartbeat of the Argentine national team despite being in the latter stages of his remarkable career.
Since making his international debut in 2005, Messi has become Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, while helping the nation win the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup and the 2025 Copa América.
Argentina’s players and supporters will be encouraged by Messi’s return, as the team seeks to defend the title they won in dramatic fashion four years ago.
His presence on the field brings not only world-class quality but also leadership and experience in high-pressure situations.
Scaloni has built a strong squad around Messi, with younger stars stepping up in recent years. Nevertheless, the Inter Miami forward remains a key figure and continues to influence games with his creativity, vision and ability to score important goals.
The reigning world champions are expected to face a tough challenge throughout the tournament, with several top nations aiming to dethrone them. However, the return of their captain for the opening fixture provides an early boost and strengthens their hopes of making another deep run in the competition.
