Will Lionel Messi compete in the 2026 World Cup? Legendary footballer from Argentina declares,I am going to as long as.
Although Lionel Messi admits that time is not on his side, he is not ruling out another attempt to win a World Cup with Argentina in 2026.
Nearly a year ago, Messi, who recently won his eighth Ballon d'Or, raised the World Cup after leading Argentina against France in the Doha final.
The 36-year-old had stated at the time that the competition in Qatar would be his final one and that he wouldn't be present for the competition in 2020, which the US, Canada, and Mexico will co-host.
But he says the door is still open, having moved to Inter Miami of Major League Soccer and continued to play for the national team in 2026 qualifiers.
"Since anything can happen, I'm not thinking about the World Cup or guaranteeing that I won't be there. The most likely thing is that I won't be there due to my age. Then we'll see," Messi stated in an interview with Star of Argentina.
The captain of Argentina stated that he is concentrating on the Copa America, which will take place in the US in June.
Perhaps we'll perform well in the Copa America and everything will come together to allow us to go on. Perhaps not. In all honesty, it's challenging," he remarked when asked about his chances of making it to the World Cup six times in a row.
"The first to know when I can be there and when I can't" is what Messi promised to do. I also know that I've dropped down a level. However, it all comes down to how you handle things personally and how you compete.
"I will continue to contribute as long as I feel well enough to do so. My only concern for today is traveling to the Copa America. Time will tell after that whether or not I'm present.
"I'll be arriving at a time when I typically can't compete in the World Cup due to my age. I mentioned that I doubted I would attend. Contrary to what appeared, I was not retiring after the World Cup. I want to be there more than ever right now," he continued.