Signorini urges Messi to take extended MLS break ahead of World Cup

Lionel Messi’s participation in the upcoming World Cup is still not fully confirmed, yet the likelihood of him appearing in the tournament to be held in June and July across the United States, Mexico and Canada remains strong. According to Argentina’s renowned fitness coach Fernando Signorini, Messi’s presence is crucial for the country’s mission to defend their world title.

However, Signorini believes that for the sake of the national team, Messi should take a long break from Major League Soccer before the World Cup. In his view, the football Messi is currently playing at Inter Miami is not real football but rather a parody of the sport.

Signorini, who played a major role in Diego Maradona’s career and served alongside him in Argentina’s coaching staff, mentioned Maradona during an interview with Super Deportivo Radio. He said Messi should focus solely on the 2026 World Cup and adjust his preparation accordingly. He added that Maradona would have told Messi, “Make the World Cup your priority.”

Messi has stated that his participation depends on how he feels physically and mentally. Signorini believes the key to ensuring he feels at his best during the tournament is “early isolation”. He said Messi should go on holiday three months before the World Cup, detach himself from everything and let his mind and body recover from fatigue. On returning, the hunger generated by his absence from football would serve him well.

Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023 and recently extended his contract with the club until 2028. But Signorini argues that MLS cannot adequately prepare him for a demanding tournament like the World Cup. He claimed he did not see real football at Inter Miami’s stadium, suggesting it felt more like another sport.

He also warned that if Messi remains in MLS until the World Cup begins, he will fall behind Europe-based players, which could harm Argentina. Ultimately, Signorini’s core message is that Messi must prioritise the World Cup, conserve his energy and avoid trying to play every match from the first minute.

KhaborwalaAJ