Will Lionel Messi Play in Argentina vs Ecuador CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers? Here’s the Possibility of Star Footballer Making the Starting XI

Lionel Messi has joined the Argentina team in order to take part in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Ecuador and Argentina. Having led Argentina to their third FIFA World Cup trophy last year in Qatar, the star man would look to help his side book a ticket to the next edition of the marquee tournament, which would be co-hosted by USA and Mexico. In red-hot form ever since joining Inter Miami in the MLS, all eyes would be on Messi as Argentina face Ecuador in their first match of CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires . But the question is--will he make it to Argentina's starting XI against Ecuador? Will Lionel Messi Play in Argentina vs Indonesia International Friendly 2023 Fixture? Here’s the Possibility of the Star Footballer Making the Starting XI.

Messi also is in line to win a record eighth Ballon d'Or award, having made it to the list of 30 nominees for the top award, given by France football. He, however, faces tough competition from Erling Haaland, who was in sensational form last season, helping Manchester City win a historic treble. The Argentina national team would be in action in an official match for the first time since winning the FIFA World Cup 2022 after a thrilling final against France. For the uninitiated, a total of 48 teams would be involved in the competition in the next edition and Argentina, the reigning champions, would look to make a dominant start to this qualifying campaign. Ballon d'Or 2023 Nominees: Lionel Messi and Aitana Bonmati Nominated, Cristiano Ronaldo Misses Cut.

Will Lionel Messi Play in Argentina vs Ecuador CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers? 

The 36-year-old has trained hard with the Argentina national team and looks ready to take part in the match. However, there's also a possibility that he might not be part of the starting XI, given the fact that he has been playing continuously for Inter Miami and national team manager Lionel Scaloni might use him off the bench at some point in the match.

Messi has been in great form for Inter Miami, scoring 11 times in as many matches. The highlight of his Inter Miami career was leading them to the Leagues Cup 2023 title, which is the club's first trophy.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 07, 2023 12:08 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).