• •Lionel Messi opted for a solo training session separate from the main Argentina squad, according to ESPN.
• •The session was focused on conditioning and recovery work, which team staff described as part of a pre-planned individual load management strategy.
• •It remains unconfirmed whether this separation is a precaution for minor physical fatigue or a response to an undisclosed injury concern ahead of 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Lionel Messi trained apart from his Argentina teammates during the most recent national team practice session. While the team often uses individualized programs to manage the workload of veteran players, the decision immediately drew focus given the proximity of the 2026 World Cup qualifying cycle. Team officials have not provided a specific update on his fitness status, leaving the exact reason for his solo work unclear. Whether this indicates a lingering physical issue or standard maintenance will likely be clarified in the coming days as the squad prepares for upcoming matches.