World Cup 2026: Messi nursing knocks as Argentina faces Iceland with multiple injuries

Argentina's national football team is facing significant injury concerns just over a week before their World Cup debut as defending champions. Coach Lionel Scaloni is closely monitoring the fitness of several players, including star Lionel Messi, who is currently being managed with minor issues.

The team, set to play their final friendly against Iceland in Auburn, Alabama, has a core group from their 2022 World Cup-winning squad. However, Scaloni might be forced into last-minute squad changes due to physical ailments affecting multiple players. Leonardo Balerdi has already been ruled out with a thigh tear, and Scaloni is evaluating potential replacements.

Further complicating matters, Leandro Paredes is dealing with a mild tear, and Julián Álvarez has ankle inflammation. Goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez is recovering from a fractured finger, though it is not expected to prevent him from playing in their June 16 opener against Algeria. The coach expressed concern, stating the team is not at 100 percent with many players, and they need more time to assess fitness before finalizing the squad.