Scaloni says Messi will play in Argentina's friendly against Iceland

SALADIN, Iraq — Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni said captain Lionel Messi will feature in the national team's friendly match against Iceland at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Alabama. Scaloni told a pre-match press conference that he would determine Messi's playing time after Saturday's final training session, adding he would remain cautious given the risk of injury. The coach also confirmed that forward Julián Álvarez and midfielder Leandro Paredes are recovering from injuries and are expected to rejoin full team training by the weekend. Both players missed recent sessions but their return would provide Argentina with additional options ahead of the tournament. Scaloni expressed frustration with the timing of the friendly, which is scheduled one day before the 2026 World Cup begins. He described the fixture as an obstacle to Argentina's preparation rather than a useful tune-up. The coach also pushed back against media coverage of his recent comments regarding Messi's role in the tournament, saying his remarks had been taken out of context and that he consults with Messi before making decisions about the national team.