Soccer

Lionel Messi gets brutally honest about playing in the 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi had a very interesting answer when asked about the probabilities of playing at the 2026 World Cup.

Lionel Messi with Argentina's national team
© Alex Pantling/Getty ImagesLionel Messi with Argentina's national team

Lionel Messi is 36-years old, but he looks unstoppable with Inter Miami in the MLS. The legend has scored eleven goals in two months and hoisted his first trophy in the US after winning the 2023 Leagues Cup.

Meanwhile, with Argentina’s national team, Messi was the key factor in the start of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador. Though he missed the next game at Bolivia, Leo is still the leader of the strongest squad at the international level.

US Navy veterans are furious with the bodyguard of Lionel Messi

see also

That’s why, considering Lionel Messi doesn’t seem to be ready for retirement, the big question is if he will consider to defend the title in the tournament which will be played in Mexico, the United States and Canada.

Advertisement

Will Lionel Messi play in the 2026 World Cup?

Lionel Messi explained if he will be ready or not to play the 2026 World Cup with Argentina. It all happened during an exclusive interview with Migue Granados in the famous program Olga.

“I honestly don’t know. I don’t think about it yet because it’s too far away. I do think in Copa America (2024) and my goal is to be ready for that tournament in the US. It’s going to be very nice. Here there are spectacular stadiums and a great environment.”

Advertisement

Though his presence at the Copa America in 2024 seems to be confirmed, the final decision for the World Cup will depend on a lot of factors. That’s why Messi is very cautious about that scenario.

Bad news for Lionel Messi\'s Inter Miami: \'The deal won\'t happen\'

see also

“Years pass by and we’ll see how I’m feeling. The MLS is another rhythm. It’s going to be day by day. There are three years left for the World Cup. I made an important decision leaving Europe to come to Miami. Right now, I don’t want to think about the next step. I just want to enjoy.”

Advertisement

ALSO READ

Aaron Rodgers and the Jets risk losing a key star over contract drama
NFL

Aaron Rodgers and the Jets risk losing a key star over contract drama

NFL News: John Harbaugh's Ravens waive former Steelers player days after trading for him
NFL

NFL News: John Harbaugh's Ravens waive former Steelers player days after trading for him

Warriors aim for more help for Curry with another trade
NBA

Warriors aim for more help for Curry with another trade

Former NBA All-Star urges Philadelphia 76ers to make a definitive decision on Embiid, Paul George
NBA

Former NBA All-Star urges Philadelphia 76ers to make a definitive decision on Embiid, Paul George

Better Collective Logo