Cheerleader! Argentina decide Lionel Messi’s role in October friendlies

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has vowed not to take any risks with Lionel Messi during the October international friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico.

Messi is doubtful for the Venezuela clash, which will be played on Saturday, only a day before Inter Miami face Atlanta United in a crucial MLS fixture. However, he will link up with his Argentine team-mates after playing seven matches in 21 days.

The former Barcelona star has featured for Inter Miami in all of their last seven Major League Soccer games across the span of three weeks.

Despite the hectic fixtures, Messi was still at his best, contributing five goals and six assists as the Herons booked their berth in the MLS playoffs. Miami’s next fixture is against Atlanta United on Sunday, a day after Argentina face Venezuela in a friendly clash and the Albiceleste captain is yet to decide on whether to play for the national team in that game.

Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring his team’s third goal during the MLS match between Inter Miami CF and D.C. United. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

Addressing Messi’s situation, Argentina boss Scaloni told reporters: “We will take a decision, we will see how he [Messi] and the rest of the players are. We are going to talk to him [Messi] and to the others.

“The idea is not to risk anyone. These are important games for the national team but they are friendlies. Whoever has a minor problem, whether it’s him or someone else, we are not going to take any risks whatsoever.”

Scaloni further claimed that he sees the upcoming friendly matches as a perfect opportunity to watch some untested players perform ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

He added: “Naturally, we are going to try to give a chance to new players, to see if they can get on board. That is the idea – to use these matches to try different players. We feel that every time there is an international match – whether official or friendly – it provides a unique opportunity.”

Messi’s future with the Argentina national team continues to remain uncertain as he’s yet to confirm if he’ll feature at the 2026 World Cup.