Messi
leaves the door open to defend Argentina’s title in North America
Miami,
United States — Argentina captain Lionel Messi, 38, has confirmed that he hopes
to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, provided his physical condition
allows him to perform at the highest level.
In
a recent interview with NBC News, the Inter Miami forward emphasized that his
health will determine his final decision. “I am going to assess that on a
day-to-day basis when I start the preseason next year with Inter (Miami) and
see if I can really be 100%, if I can be useful to the group, to the national
team, and then make a decision,” said the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
From
Qatar to North America: The Champion’s Dilemma
The
2026 World Cup — to be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada —
would be Messi’s sixth World Cup appearance, a record few players have
achieved.
Argentina
qualified for the tournament during the September 2025 international window,
giving coach Lionel Scaloni ample time to plan for a possible Messi inclusion.
“Same
as I said before about the World Cup that I don’t think I’ll play another.
Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it. But well,
we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated to play it,” Messi told
reporters after a 3–0 win over Venezuela earlier this year.
Experience
and Honesty Over Hype
Messi
has long insisted on being “honest with himself” about his performance level.
“When I feel good, I enjoy it, but when I don’t, honestly, I don’t have a good
time,” he said. “So I prefer not to be there if I don’t feel good.”
This
measured tone contrasts with the emotional farewell he hinted at after winning
the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, when Argentina triumphed against France in a
dramatic penalty shootout.
A
Legacy Already Sealed
- Messi’s career is among the most decorated in modern football:
- 114 international goals for Argentina since 2005.
- Copa América 2021 and World Cup 2022 champion.
- More than 40 major trophies across club and international football.
“It was the dream of my life,” he reflected on his 2022 victory. “It was also true that it was the only thing missing at a professional level because I had achieved everything else.”
What
Messi’s Decision Means for Argentina
If
Messi remains fit and joins the squad in 2026, Argentina could become the first
team since Brazil (1958–62) to win back-to-back World Cups with the same
captain.
Football
analysts note that even a limited role — mentoring younger stars like Julián
Álvarez or Enzo Fernández — would bring invaluable leadership.
The
2026 World Cup Format
- Host nations: United States, Mexico, Canada
- Teams: 48 (expanded format)
- Final venue (expected): MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
- Dates: June–July 2026
The
new format will increase the number of matches, potentially requiring greater
rotation — a factor that could favor veteran players who manage their minutes
effectively.
Expert
Insight
According
to ESPN analyst Fernando Palomo, Messi’s participation “would symbolize
continuity between two football generations — the golden one that won in Qatar
and the new wave that’s learning to play under his shadow.”
Whether
or not he steps onto the field in 2026, Lionel Messi’s legacy is already
secured. Yet his words reveal an athlete who refuses to take his greatness for
granted — one still guided by humility, realism, and love for the game.
“Hopefully
God will allow me to do it once again,” he said.
By: María Pérez | Editor-in-Chief
Publication
date: 04/11/2025
Transparency
note: This article was written using verified sources (CNN, NBC News, FIFA,
ESPN) and reviewed under CRN Times editorial standards.