Buenos Aires, Argentina – October 28, 2025 — Football icon Lionel Messi has hinted that he could return to represent Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying his participation will depend on his physical condition as he nears 39 years of age. The Argentine captain, who led his nation to glory in Qatar 2022, said defending the title in North America would be “a dream,” though he admitted that fitness and readiness will determine whether he can make a sixth World Cup appearance.
Messi Keeps Door Open for Sixth World Cup Appearance
Speaking to NBC News, the Inter Miami forward revealed that he has not ruled out playing in the 2026 tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
“It’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup, and I would love to,” Messi said in the interview released on Monday. “I would like to be there, to be well, and be an important part of helping my team. I’ll assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start preseason next year with Inter and see if I can really be 100 percent — if I can be useful — and then make a decision.”
Messi, who will turn 39 next June, emphasized that his decision will depend entirely on his health and form heading into 2026, saying, “I’m really eager because it’s a World Cup. We’re coming off winning the last one, and being able to defend it on the field again is spectacular.”
Extended Contract With Inter Miami Shows Messi’s Continued Ambition
The Argentine star recently extended his contract with Inter Miami until 2028, ensuring he will continue playing in Major League Soccer (MLS) well past the World Cup. His arrival in the United States in 2023 revolutionized the league’s popularity, attracting global attention and record-breaking attendance as North America gears up to host the biggest FIFA World Cup in history.
Messi’s longevity and commitment to the sport have stunned analysts and fans alike. Nearly two decades after debuting for FC Barcelona in 2004, the forward remains one of football’s most influential figures — both on and off the pitch.
From Qatar Glory to 2026 Dreams: Messi’s Quest for One More Triumph
Messi’s emotional triumph in Qatar 2022 cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in football history. Argentina’s dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout win over France in the final delivered the one trophy that had long eluded him.
“It was the dream of my life,” Messi said. “It was also true that it was the only thing missing at a professional level because I had been lucky enough to have achieved everything at an individual and team level with Barcelona. Every player’s dream is to be world champion.”
Before the 2022 victory, Messi had endured heartbreak in multiple finals — including three Copa America and one World Cup final defeat. His eventual triumph at the Copa America 2021 in Brazil marked the start of Argentina’s modern golden era under coach Lionel Scaloni, culminating in their World Cup win a year later.
Record-Breaking Career: A Legacy Beyond Compare
Over his illustrious career, Lionel Messi has played 195 matches and scored 114 goals for Argentina — both national records. A sixth World Cup appearance in 2026 would make him the first player ever to appear in six editions of the tournament, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lothar Matthäus.
Messi’s global influence extends far beyond the pitch. From his early days as a teenage prodigy at Barcelona to his historic runs with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Inter Miami, he has won eight Ballon d’Or awards, four Champions League titles, and more than 40 major trophies.
Fitness, Leadership, and Legacy in Focus
As the World Cup approaches, fitness remains Messi’s greatest challenge. Playing regularly in MLS has allowed him to maintain a high competitive rhythm while avoiding the physical toll of Europe’s top leagues. Still, the 2026 tournament — expected to feature 48 teams and 104 matches — will test even the fittest athletes.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has repeatedly said the national team will “always have a place” for Messi, whether as a starter or mentor. Many fans believe his leadership and experience could prove invaluable, even if he takes on a more limited on-field role.
Messi and Argentina’s Path to 2026
With qualification already underway, Argentina remains one of the favorites to defend its crown. The team boasts rising stars like Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister, all of whom flourished under Messi’s guidance during the 2022 triumph.
Whether or not he plays, Messi’s presence will loom large over the tournament. The World Cup’s North American setting — particularly matches hosted in Miami and Los Angeles — could offer the perfect stage for one final chapter in his legendary career.
Summary of Key Facts
- Player: Lionel Messi
- Team: Argentina / Inter Miami (MLS)
- Age: 38 (turning 39 in June 2026)
- Interview: NBC News
- Topic: Possible participation in FIFA World Cup 2026
- Achievements: 2022 World Cup winner, 2021 Copa America winner, 8 Ballon d’Ors
- Record: 195 international matches, 114 goals
Leave a Reply