Messi trains alone as Argentina hold first World Cup practice | World Cup 2026 News
Lionel Messi Trains as Argentina Prepares for World Cup
Published on June 3, 2026
Kansas City, Mo. — Lionel Messi has begun training independently during Argentina’s first practice session at their World Cup base camp in the United States this week. The defending champions held their initial preparations on Monday in Kansas City, where the squad will continue to gear up for the tournament.
Messi, who has been managing muscle fatigue in his left hamstring since May 24, is expected to be fit for Argentina’s opening match against Algeria on June 16. The Inter Miami captain, now 38, participated in “specific exercises” alongside several teammates addressing similar fitness concerns.
“The players who are dealing with minor injuries are working closely with the physiotherapy team on specific exercises and are making good progress,” the Argentine Football Association stated.
Argentina, currently ranked third in the world, will play their final warm-up match against Iceland on June 9 in Auburn, Alabama. Messi, a two-time MLS MVP and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is set to appear in his sixth World Cup, having previously made his debut with the national team in 2005. He holds the record for most caps (198) and goals (116) for Argentina.
