Despite initial indications, Lionel Messi doesn’t entirely rule out a 2026 World Cup appearance with Argentina, expressing openness to the idea.
Lionel Messi, fresh from securing his eighth Ballon d’Or, isn’t completely closing the door on competing for World Cup glory with Argentina in 2026, although he recognizes the challenges posed by time.
While Messi previously hinted that the 2022 World Cup in Qatar would mark his last appearance, circumstances seem to have evolved. Even after moving to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, the football legend has stayed engaged with Argentina’s national team qualifiers for the 2026 event, indicating a possible continuation.
“I’m not entirely shutting down the idea of the World Cup. Due to my age, it’s more likely that I won’t participate. However, circumstances can change unexpectedly. I’m not ruling it out completely,” Messi conveyed in an interview with Argentina’s Star.
His immediate focus lies on the Copa America scheduled for June in the United States. Messi acknowledged the difficulty of envisioning a sixth consecutive World Cup appearance, expressing realism about the challenges.
“Perhaps our performance in the Copa America could influence our decision to continue or not. It’s a challenging prospect,” Messi explained, considering the upcoming event’s potential impact on his World Cup aspirations.
Messi acknowledged his age and physical condition, recognizing they typically wouldn’t favor World Cup participation. Reflecting on his past statements about retirement and the subsequent reversal of those decisions, Messi expressed an intensified desire to participate in the upcoming tournament.
“Previously, I hinted at retirement after the World Cup, but it turned out differently. Now, my motivation to be part of it is stronger than ever,” he affirmed.
The football icon remains focused on immediate goals, emphasizing that the Copa America takes precedence. Beyond that, he leaves room for the future to decide his potential involvement in the 2026 World Cup.
“I’ll be reaching an age where playing in the World Cup isn’t typical. I mentioned that I might not be present. However, circumstances change. I’m primarily concentrating on the Copa America. What follows will reveal itself,” Messi concluded.
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