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How fit is Lionel Messi for the 2026 World Cup? Argentina’s latest update explained
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- How fit is Lionel Messi for the 2026 World Cup? Argentina’s latest update explained
Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images
Lionel Messi is following an individual training programme with Argentina ahead of the 2026 World Cup after experiencing a hamstring issue during Inter Miami 's MLS campaign.
The Argentina captain has been working separately from the main group in Kansas as he continues his recovery before the tournament begins.
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Reports from Argentina suggest Messi is unlikely to feature against Honduras, while his availability for the match against Iceland will depend on his progress over the coming days.
Why Lionel Messi is training separately from Argentina
Photo by Alex Goodlett/MLS via Getty Images
Messi is managing a left hamstring issue ahead of Argentina's World Cup campaign. Inter Miami confirmed that the 38-year-old had an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring after further medical tests.
That update came after Messi left Inter Miami's match against Philadelphia Union with discomfort.
Argentina have since placed him on an individual programme as they monitor his recovery during their pre-tournament camp.
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According to reports in Argentina, Messi trained separately from the rest of the squad in Kansas, with that plan expected to continue in the coming days.
His involvement against Honduras is considered highly unlikely, while any minutes against Iceland will depend on how he responds to his recovery plan.
What Messi's latest fitness update means for Argentina's World Cup hopes
Messi remains part of Argentina's World Cup plans, but his preparation is being carefully managed before the tournament starts.
The latest reports indicate that the issue is linked to fatigue rather than a more serious muscle injury.
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That distinction is important for Argentina, who are assessing his condition before deciding whether he should be involved in their warm-up fixtures.
Messi is now expected to continue working under medical supervision as Argentina prepare for their opening match of the tournament.
The next few days will give Argentina a clearer picture of whether he can return to team training before the World Cup begins.
For now, the situation is one of caution rather than confirmation that Messi will miss competitive action.
Argentina are expected to continue monitoring Messi's fitness ahead of the World Cup as they look to have their captain available for the tournament. Attention is also beginning to turn towards the wider event, including plans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony .
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