Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has expressed optimism over Lionel Messi's recovery from injury, revealing that the team captain could see limited action in the country's upcoming friendly matches ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Messi recently suffered a strain to his left hamstring during Inter Miami's last outing and was initially expected to miss Argentina's first pre-World Cup friendly against Honduras.

However, speaking ahead of the encounter, Scaloni disclosed that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has already resumed partial training with the squad, providing a significant boost to Argentina's preparations.

According to the coach, Messi's recovery has progressed positively in recent days, and the technical crew is considering giving him some playing time before the tournament begins.

Scaloni noted that while no final decision has been made, the possibility remains that the 38-year-old could feature briefly in one of Argentina's two scheduled friendly matches.

Argentina, the defending world champions, are set to face Honduras in College Station, Texas, before taking on Iceland in Auburn, Alabama, as part of their final preparations for the tournament.

The coach admitted that Messi's improving condition has brought relief to the team's technical and medical staff, given the forward's importance to Argentina's World Cup ambitions.

Beyond Messi, Argentina are also monitoring the fitness of several other key players ahead of their opening fixture.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been ruled out of both friendly matches after suffering a fractured finger during preparations for the UEFA Europa League final. As a result, Juan Musso is expected to start in goal against Honduras, while young goalkeeper Santiago Beltran could also be given an opportunity to impress.

Despite Martinez's absence, the coaching staff remain confident that he will recover in time for Argentina's opening World Cup match.

In defence, Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel are both recovering from muscle injuries, prompting the call-up of Agustin Giay and Nicolas Capaldo as temporary replacements for the friendlies.

Meanwhile, centre-back Cristian Romero has returned to group training after recovering from a knee sprain but is still working towards full match fitness.

Midfielder Nicolas Paz is also being closely monitored after suffering a knee injury and has already been ruled out of the Honduras fixture.

Leandro Paredes and Julian Alvarez are likewise recovering from minor fitness concerns, although both players are reportedly making steady progress.

Scaloni stressed that the coaching staff would not take unnecessary risks with any player before the World Cup, emphasizing the importance of having a fully fit squad for the tournament.

According to the Argentine manager, the coming days will provide a clearer picture of the team's overall readiness as preparations enter their final stage.

Argentina will begin the defence of their World Cup crown on June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City, with the fitness of Messi and several other senior players expected to remain a major focus in the build-up to the tournament.