Lionel Messi and Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez, two of Argentina’s biggest football stars, returned to training in Kansas after joining the national team camp amid lingering questions over their fitness.
Argentina held an open training session on Wednesday ahead of its 2026 World Cup debut on June 16, against Algeria.
With fewer than 10 days remaining until the tournament begins and several players carrying injury concerns, the session offered an early glimpse of the Albiceleste’s condition as preparations enter their final stretch.
The first key highlight was the Argentine captain. Lionel Messi is struggling with a strain in the back of his left leg and is expected to sit out Argentina’s preparatory friendlies against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9.
Argentina fans were given reason for optimism on Wednesday as Messi returned to training. The Inter Miami star was among the last players to emerge from the gym, and while he did not take part in full team drills, he was able to complete a substantial individual workout.
