Lionel Messi to start on the bench against Jordan in World Cup 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Lionel Messi will not be in the starting lineup for the final group stage match against Jordan at the 2026 World Cup. The decision was made for squad rotation purposes after Argentina already secured qualification for the Round of 32. Scaloni clarified that Messi is healthy and the choice is purely tactical, noting that the player is expected to participate as a substitute. Messi currently leads the top scorer race with five goals, having scored against Algeria and Austria. During a press conference, Scaloni revealed the lineup decision in response to a direct question from 91-year-old journalist Macaya Marquez. Scaloni expressed profound respect for Marquez, who is covering his 18th World Cup tournament. The coach emphasized that the players starting against Jordan were selected based on their performance and dedication in recent training sessions.