FILE - Argentina’s Lionel Messi controls the ball during a qualifying soccer match for the FIFA World Cup 2026 against Uruguay at La Bombonera stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023. Two players regarded as key for Argentina’s renovation will be in the United States for the tournament, Brighton left back Valentín Barco and Monza striker Valentín Carboni.
“We are clear about the path to follow. It is not easy to compete again after winning it all,” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said in March. “About results, the winner isn’t always the one who does the best things. ... No one can lower their guard.” The Argentina captain has struggled with muscular injuries since the World Cup, but has not said when he expects to retire from the national team.