Scandal in world football: [Lionel Messi](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/porque-e-que-marcelo-bielsa-e-conhecido-por-el-loco-o-homem-que-perseguiu-adeptos-com-uma-granada/) will indeed start on the bench against Jordan, a surprising decision confirmed by [Lionel Scaloni](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/lionel-messi-comeca-no-banco-frente-a-jordania-no-mundial-2026/) in an explosive press conference. The Argentine coach made it clear that this was a considered decision, following a direct conversation with the team’s captain and biggest star, sending shockwaves among fans and analysts around the globe.
The news was made public on June 27, 2026, shortly after midnight, when Scaloni was confronted about the management of the squad and Messi’s physical condition. “I spoke with him…,” the coach revealed, bluntly. The meeting, held in a stadium filled with anticipation, marks a turning point in Argentina’s approach to this stage of the competition, with the coach emphasizing that the priority is to manage the star’s effort at a time when the team is looking to secure qualification for the next round.
[THE 2026 WORLD CUP IS EXPERIENCED WITH LEGO](https://www.lego.com/pt-pt/categories/football/football-gifts-toys)
This decision takes on greater significance considering Messi’s almost untouchable status in the national team. The Inter Miami forward is seen as indispensable both on and off the pitch, usually being an undisputed starter in high-stakes matches. By choosing to leave him on the bench, Scaloni risks not only the reaction of the fans but also affects the morale of the group and the offensive dynamics of Argentina, known for its chronic dependence on the genius from Rosario in crucial moments.
The choice of Scaloni comes in a context of immense pressure on Argentina, which has faced criticism for its unconvincing football in recent matches. The Argentine coach explained, even before the game, that “I spoke with him…,” emphasizing that the decision was made together with Messi, after analyzing the player’s physical condition and the demands of the schedule. “It’s important for us to have everyone ready for the knockout stages,” Scaloni added, highlighting the need to manage the squad intelligently at this stage of the competition.
Messi, for his part, did not hide some frustration but accepted the decision with the professionalism he is known for. “The important thing is that the team is well. If I need to come on later to help, I’ll be ready,” declared the Argentine captain moments before the kickoff. These words show a rare maturity and an understanding that longevity at the highest level sometimes requires sacrifices and concessions, even for the greatest in history.
Scaloni’s decision, however, may have unpredictable consequences. Without Messi from the start, Argentina loses creativity, leadership, and decision-making ability in the final third, factors that could be exploited by a Jordan motivated to cause an upset. On the other hand, managing effort could prove decisive in the event of extra time or the need for a quick response to an adverse result. Experts are divided: some praise the coach’s courage, while others question the risk of sacrificing his best player in a game that could be a do-or-die situation.
The following is an enigma: if Argentina wins and Messi comes on to tip the balance in the second half, Scaloni will be seen as a visionary. Otherwise, the coach risks facing fierce criticism and seeing his position weakened in front of a passionate but intolerant press and public when it comes to failure. One thing is certain: today’s decision will go down in the history of Argentine and world football, and all eyes will be on Messi when, inevitably, he is called to enter the field to try to rescue his team from any adverse scenario.
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