Messi to Start on Bench Against Jordan: Scaloni's Decision Before World Cup 2026 Round of 16

Lionel Messi, Argentina's star forward, will begin the match against Jordan on the bench, coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed on June 26. This strategic decision is designed to carefully manage the 39-year-old captain's physical exertion as the team prepares for the demanding knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup.

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Leo will start on the bench, but I'm answering you because it's you, otherwise I would have dodged it. You deserve it. I'll keep the team news to myself. Leo will come on later, I have the team confirmed, but we'll announce it tomorrow.

Scaloni announced the news during a pre-match press conference, responding directly to a question from veteran journalist Enrique Macaya Márquez. "Leo will start on the bench, but I'm answering you because it's you, otherwise I would have dodged it. You deserve it. I'll keep the team news to myself. Leo will come on later, I have the team confirmed, but we'll announce it tomorrow," Scaloni stated, acknowledging Márquez's long career covering the tournament.

Argentina has already secured its place in the round of 16 after winning its first two Group J matches. With qualification assured, the coaching staff is prioritizing player welfare, particularly for Messi, who has been instrumental in the team's success. Despite starting on the bench, Messi is expected to feature in the game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, ensuring he is in peak condition for the crucial elimination phase.

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IT IS A PLEASURE FOR ME TO BE ABLE TO ANSWER A QUESTION FROM YOU. I'm answering because it's you, enjoy the World Cup.

Before addressing the Messi question, Scaloni also took a moment to express solidarity with Venezuela following recent earthquakes and paid tribute to Márquez, one of Argentine football's most iconic journalists. Messi has had a strong start to the tournament, scoring a hat-trick in the opening game and playing a key role in Argentina's victories. His presence, even from the sidelines, adds significant interest to the match against Jordan and underscores the team's focus on having their talisman fully fit for the challenges ahead.

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That's enough for me.