Will Lionel Messi play against Zambia? Scaloni confirms Argentina starters

Lionel Messi will be in the starting lineup for Argentina’s match against Zambia. Head coach Lionel Scaloni made it official during his latest press conference, held Monday afternoon.

Scaloni explained that the heavy rotation in the previous game against Mauritania was simply “to give other guys a chance.” This time, he didn’t wait until matchday to reveal that Argentina’s captain will be part of the starting XI.

He also didn’t shy away from criticizing the team’s performance in that Mauritania match, saying he was proud that his players “recognized the game wasn’t good.”

Scaloni addresses his future with Argentina

Reporters pressed Scaloni about his future, as his contract expires at the end of the year. He said he plans to speak with the Argentine Football Association after the World Cup. He didn’t commit to staying, but he also didn’t rule out continuing through 2030 — an idea AFA president Claudio “Chiqui” Tapia has floated.

Since taking over in 2018, Scaloni has become the most successful coach in Argentina’s history, winning four major titles:

Two friendlies announced ahead of the 2026 World Cup

One of the biggest headlines from the press conference was Scaloni’s announcement that Argentina will play two friendlies before the 2026 World Cup — one against Serbia and another opponent still to be determined. Both matches will feature the full 26-man World Cup roster.

Scaloni sends emotional message to injured striker Panichelli

Scaloni closed by offering heartfelt words for Strasbourg forward Panichelli, who suffered an injury that will keep him out of the World Cup.

“It’s very tough,” Scaloni said. “He came to speak with us, and it was very emotional. He didn’t deserve this — none of them do — but especially him.”

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