Messi Trains Alone as Argentina Begins World Cup Prep in Kansas City
Argentina opened its World Cup training camp in Kansas City with Lionel Messi working separately as he recovers from hamstring fatigue, while the reigning champions aim to have him ready for their opener against Algeria.
Argentina has begun its World Cup buildup in Kansas City, and all eyes are on Lionel Messi. The Inter Miami captain trained separately from the rest of the squad during the team’s first session as he continues recovering from muscle fatigue in his left hamstring, a setback he picked up in late May.
Even so, Argentina remain confident that their captain will be ready for the opening match against Algeria. The defending champions have gathered at their U.S. base camp to complete their final preparations, with Kansas City serving as their training headquarters for the tournament.
Kansas City was chosen as Argentina’s base for the 2026 World Cup, with the team set to train at the Compass Minerals National Performance Center, Sporting Kansas City’s training site. The location gives Lionel Scaloni’s squad a central and convenient home for much of the competition, while also placing them in the same city where they will begin their title defense.
The image of Messi training on his own is a reminder of how carefully Argentina are managing their most important player. The 2022 champions are aiming to balance caution with readiness, especially with the tournament’s opening stage approaching quickly and expectations once again centered on their captain.
For Argentina, the message from Kansas City is clear: the campaign has started, the base camp is set, and the focus is on getting Messi back to full fitness at the right time.