Messi to Start on the Bench Against Jordan, Scaloni Confirms

Argentina captain Lionel Messi will not feature in the starting XI for La Albiceleste's final group stage match against Jordan in the 2026 World Cup. Team head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed the development ahead of the fixture. Breaking his usual policy of keeping team selections under wraps until the final moments, Scaloni chose to reveal this tactical decision out of profound respect for the legendary Argentine sports journalist Enrique Macaya Márquez, who is currently covering his 18th World Cup at the remarkable age of 91.

During a pre-match press conference in Dallas ahead of the clash with Jordan, Scaloni was addressing media queries regarding Argentina's final group stage encounter when Macaya Márquez—who has covered every single tournament consecutively since the 1958 World Cup in Sweden—raised a question regarding Saturday's starting lineup and the status of the captain, who has already netted five goals in the first two matches.

Responding to the veteran journalist, an emotional Scaloni said, "Enrique, it is an honor for me that you asked this question. It feels great to see you here. Thank you for coming. Covering 18 World Cups is an unbelievable milestone. It is a pleasure to answer you because we have known each other for so many years. I used to watch you constantly when I played in Argentina. When you spoke, you were a towering figure to us, and you remain exactly the same today."

Following the tribute, the Argentine strategist delivered the tactical update everyone had been waiting for.

"I am answering your question directly: Leo will start on the bench," Scaloni stated. "I am providing this answer solely because it is you asking. Had it been anyone else, I would have deflected it."

Reiterating his stance to the press room, Scaloni added, "Rest assured, I am only disclosing this because of who you are; you truly deserve it. I will not reveal the rest of the starting lineup just yet; that remains confidential. However, I can confirm Leo's status. Leo will come on later in the match. The complete squad has been finalized, but I will announce it tomorrow. Enrique, thank you for the question, and please continue to enjoy the World Cup."

Seizing the momentum, Macaya Márquez shifted his focus away from the lineup constraints to ask the head coach about the evolving tactical trends observed among various national teams in the ongoing tournament.

"We are witnessing diverse styles of football, and success is being achieved through multiple philosophies," Scaloni replied. "Some teams are attacking through sustained possession, much like Spain or ourselves. Others rely heavily on counter-attacks, while some deploy deeply defensive strategies. Yesterday, I watched Australia play Paraguay. It was a fiercely contested 0-0 draw that pushed them into the knockout stages. Facing them will not be easy for any team."

Regarding Argentina's own identity, the coach elaborated, "I believe it is incredibly difficult for a team like ours to suddenly alter its core playing philosophy entirely. We can make tactical adjustments, but changing our entire footballing philosophy is impossible because that is our identity. Minor tweaks can be implemented based on the opposition. I firmly believe, as history has shown, that there isn't just one single path to victory. Every team can find success using their own methods, but ultimately, the strongest sides navigate their way to the final stages."

The exchange effectively put an end to the intense speculation surrounding Messi's availability. Although the talismanic forward will not start against Jordan, he is scheduled to see minutes in the second half. The primary coaching objective remains keeping him match-fit and sharp ahead of the Round of 32 knockout fixture scheduled for July 3 in Miami.

Shortly after the conclusion of the press conference, Argentine defender Nicolás Tagliafico spoke to the media, echoing praise for Macaya Márquez and expressing the squad's desire to replicate world glory in front of the iconic journalist.

"I want to say a few words about this gentleman, this absolute legend," Tagliafico remarked. "I previously had the opportunity to work alongside his son. Honestly, there is nothing quite like it. Hearing him speak today brings back the exact same feelings I had listening to him during my childhood. He is a living legend. I am deeply grateful he is here, and I hope we can deliver our absolute best on the pitch so he can enjoy it from the stands."