Lionel Messi was rested for Argentina’s friendly against Honduras on Saturday night as he continues to carefully manage muscle fatigue along with a mild strain in his left hamstring, raising some concern ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Messi, who will turn 39 in just three weeks, took part in the team’s pre-match warm-up at Kyle Field on the campus of Texas A&M, showing no obvious discomfort during light activity. However, the coaching staff opted not to risk him, and he remained on the bench throughout the match, watching from the sidelines as Argentina secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Honduras.
Team officials emphasised that Messi’s return to full action will depend on how he progresses both clinically and functionally in the coming days. The cautious approach reflects Argentina’s priority of ensuring their captain is fully fit for the World Cup rather than pushing him in a low-stakes friendly.
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Argentina will play one final warm-up match against Iceland in Auburn, Alabama, on Tuesday before heading back to Kansas City to continue preparations. Their World Cup title defense begins on June 16 against Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium, a match where Messi’s presence will be crucial.
Earlier in the week, during training sessions in Kansas City, Messi followed an individualized routine. He arrived later than his teammates and focused on light conditioning work away from the main group, underscoring the team’s careful management of his workload.
Widely expected to retire from international football after this summer’s tournament, Messi enters the competition with several historic milestones already under his belt. He holds the record for the most World Cup appearances with 26 matches and is closing in on another landmark — he needs just four more goals to surpass Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record of 16.
As Argentina balances short-term caution with long-term ambition, all eyes remain on Messi’s fitness and readiness for what could be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
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