Why is Messi benched for Jordan clash? Argentina captain set to miss last group game despite leading Golden Boot race

Lionel Messi will start Argentina’s final Group J match of the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 against Jordan from the bench. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Messi will not be in the starting XI for Sunday’s game in Arlington, Texas.

However, the manager also suggested that the 39-year-old could come on later during the match. Messi is currently at the top of the goal-scoring charts at this World Cup and is the leading contender to win the Golden Boot.

Messi has been the centre of Argentina’s campaign so far, scoring all five of their goals in their opening two matches. The legendary forward also created history during the tournament by scoring a hat-trick against Algeria, helping him surpass Germany striker Miroslav Klose’s record for most World Cup goals.

Why is Messi benched? 

Scaloni did not reveal the exact timing of Messi’s possible appearance or the complete team lineup, but it appears that the defending champions are looking to manage their captain's workload ahead of the knockout stage. Argentina are expected to make several changes after already securing top spot in the group.

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"Leo will start on the bench. I'm answering because you deserve a sincere answer. Leo will come in a little bit later," Scaloni said while speaking to reporters a day before their final group stage game.

"Those that are playing tomorrow deserve to play, they are part of the team. All the effort we've put in in training is because of them, that's why we're here. They are making every effort when they're not playing. I'd love to give everybody minutes and when I have the chance I do and it's because they deserve it. They are fantastic players too," he added.

Messi had dealt with a minor hamstring issue before the tournament, which saw him miss out on Argentina's first warm-up match against Honduras. However, he came off the bench in their second friendly against Iceland and scored via a penalty. The team does not want to take unnecessary risks ahead of the knockouts.