Cheerleader role for Lionel Messi? Argentina 'won't take any risks whatsoever' with Inter Miami star in October friendlies, vows Lionel Scaloni

Messi has featured for Inter Miami in all of their last seven Major League Soccer games across the span of three weeks. During this phase, the Argentine contributed 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.

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 no to risk anyone. These are important games for the national team but there 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 has stopped short of confirming that he will feature at the 2026 World Cup to defend the trophy that he lifted four years back in Qatar. In September, the Argentine icon had claimed that his participation is subject to his physical condition in the summer.