Leo has mapped out his journey from Miami to join the national team as Argentina ramps up for the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in a United States, Canada, and Mexico host year.
The Argentina national team will kick off a road to the World Cup mission in the U S with the defending champions leading the charge, fresh from their triumphant run in Qatar and now focused on what lies ahead. At the center of the plans is Lionel Messi, whose presence is expected to energize the squad as they begin the long path toward the 2026 tournament.
Even with questions about how long he will remain with the squad, Messi is already a central figure in Argentina’s setup, while he continues to shine for Inter Miami. The club has become a turning point for him and a symbol of a new era in Major League Soccer, after securing the Leagues Cup and changing perceptions about MLS. The Ezeiza facilities, home to the national team and named in his honor, await his arrival as they prepare to welcome the current world champions and the promising new talents joining the group.
WHEN DOES LEO ARRIVE IN ARGENTINA?
Messi is slated to land at Ezeiza International Airport on Tuesday morning, around 7 o clock, following a flight that left Miami on Monday afternoon. He is scheduled to be the final member of the squad to arrive as Inter Miami completed a 3-1 victory over LAFC in Los Angeles on Sunday night. The team’s energy and cohesion are expected to be high as they assemble in the homeland after a busy travel schedule.
Upon arrival, the captain will reconnect with teammates and take part in the evening training session. The session is anticipated to focus on tactical alignment and fitness as the group reassembles ahead of crucial qualifiers and a demanding schedule later in the campaign.
WHAT MATCHES WILL MESSI PLAY?
The immediate expectation is clear: Messi will be on the field for the clash at the Monumental against Ecuador, scheduled for Thursday night, with kick-off at 9 p m. His presence in Buenos Aires will be a major boost for the home supporters and the team’s plans to set a strong tone for the early part of World Cup qualifying. The possibility of a trip to La Paz to face Bolivia remains uncertain, given travel and schedule considerations, which could affect whether he travels for that away match.
Following his duel with La Tri, there is a chance that he heads back to the United States and lines up for the Garzas on Saturday the 9th, if the team needs him for back-to-back assignments. This scenario would keep Messi integrated with the group as they build momentum through a tightly packed calendar that includes friendlies, official qualifiers, and the ongoing MLS commitments that influence his availability.
In every step, the Argentina camp is preparing for a season of intense competition and high expectations. The combination of Messi’s leadership, a capable supporting cast, and a clear plan for integrating MLS players with the national team will shape the early phase of the qualifying campaign and set the tone for what lies ahead in the journey toward the 2026 finals. (Goal)