Football legend Lionel Messi has dropped a major hint that he may feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place from June 11 to July 19 across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. After leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar 2022, many expected Messi to retire from international football.
But the 37-year-old has goaded the doubters, remaining a critical player for Argentina and once again leading them to the final, recently helping them win the Copa América 2024.
Lionel Messi on His World Cup Future
In a recent interview with YouTube channel Simplemente Fútbol, Messi spoke candidly about his potential involvement in the 2026 World Cup. Although he hasn’t made up his mind, Messi admitted that he thinks about the tournament a lot and wishes to participate in it, if his body permits.
This year will be crucial to know what I will decide in terms of the 2026 World Cup. I would be lying if I said I’m not thinking about it [Playing the World Cup],” Messi stated.
It’s a long season that has begun and there’s the Club World Cup in June, but naturally I do think about the World Cup and being there, but now it’s about living day by day and how I’m feeling physically and being honest with myself to see if I can be there or not,” he said.
Barcelona and Career Choices
Throughout the interview, Messi also reminisced about his mythical career at FC Barcelona, winning 10 La Liga championships and four UEFA Champions League titles. Though he desired to go back to Barcelona in 2021, economic troubles at the club hindered his return.
“I had planned to go back to Barcelona and be able to return to a place where I always wanted to be, but it was not possible again,” Messi revealed.
After that, it was a family choice. The fact that we had won the World Cup also played a big role. I was sure that I didn’t want to be at another club in Europe, I didn’t want to go to any of them.”
Currently playing for Inter Miami, Messi also talked about moments of regret, especially missed chances in Europe’s largest tournament.
At the time, I believe we allowed a few more Champions Leagues to get away; we could have won more. The ones we won under Pep were truly significant, and how we played was phenomenal,” he stated.
Although the ultimate choice regarding his World Cup 2026 appearance is still in doubt, Messi’s fans can still dream of one final dance on football’s grandest stage.
