Argentina's Injury Worries Go Beyond Messi Ahead of World Cup 2026

The football world is fixated on Lionel Messi's physical condition, and understandably so. But Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni is dealing with a much broader puzzle as he prepares to finalize his roster for the 2026 World Cup. Beyond the Inter Miami superstar, several key members of the world champion squad are nursing fitness issues of their own. Scaloni, known for his measured and meticulous approach, has made it clear he will not rush anyone back. He would rather call up fully fit alternatives than gamble on half-ready stars in a tournament of this magnitude. This situation could force tactical adjustments to a team that has operated with remarkable consistency since lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022. Argentina's strength has always been its settled core, and any disruption to that spine — even temporarily — raises legitimate questions about their early-tournament rhythm. For those tracking World Cup dynamics and making predictions, Argentina remain among the favorites, but the depth of their squad will be tested like never before. The coming weeks will be critical as Scaloni weighs loyalty to his veterans against medical reality. His decisions could shape not just Argentina's group-stage approach but their entire path through the tournament.