Messi May Be Rested for Games Against Venezuela, Puerto Rico

Lionel Scaloni, the coach of Argentina, has stated that Lionel Messi will only play in the upcoming international friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico in October if he is completely fit. Scaloni is carefully monitoring Messi’s workload after the 38-year-old played full 90-minute games in seven straight matches for Inter Miami over a period of 21 days.

Scaloni stressed during a press conference that the selection of players will depend on their physical condition.

“We will make a decision after assessing Messi and the other players,” Scaloni commented.

Furthermore, the 47-year-old coach plans to discuss Messi’s fitness with him and emphasized that no unnecessary risks will be taken.

He added, “We will speak with Messi and the others. These matches are important for the national team, but since they are friendlies, we won’t take any chances.”

The former player also mentioned that these games would serve as an opportunity to assess new talent for the 2026 World Cup.

Scaloni concluded, “Of course, we will try to give new players a chance to demonstrate their abilities, whether in official or friendly matches; it’s a great opportunity.”

Argentina has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. The friendlies provide Scaloni with a chance to evaluate emerging players while also managing the fitness levels of veteran players.

Argentina is scheduled to play Venezuela on October 10 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, followed by a friendly against Puerto Rico on October 13 in Chicago.