Argentina’s captain and Inter Miami forward, Lionel Messi, has opened up about the chances of featuring in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While the football legend says the thought of playing excites him, he made it clear that his decision will depend on whether his body can still handle the demands of top-level football.
Sharing his thoughts in a post cited by Fabrizio Romano on X, Messi stated, “I’m excited for the World Cup. But I don’t want to be a burden. I want to feel good physically, be sure that I can help and contribute things to the group. I will see day to day if I really feel good physically to be like I would like to be able to participate.”
The Argentine star, who will clock 39 during the 2026 tournament, famously led his nation to World Cup victory in Qatar 2022 — fulfilling a dream that had escaped him for years.
Since lifting the trophy in Qatar, debates have persisted about whether the eight-time Ballon d’Or icon will continue his international journey long enough to attempt another World Cup run in North America. After moving to Major League Soccer in 2023, the Argentine captain has continued to feature prominently for his country, producing strong performances in qualifying matches that fuel speculation of one final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
For now, Messi’s attention is on staying in top form and giving his best for both club and nation. Whether he graces the 2026 World Cup will depend entirely on how his body responds and his confidence in maintaining the high standards that have defined his career.
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