Los Angeles: Football icon Lionel Messi has revealed that he is open to representing Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, though he admits his decision will depend on his form and physical condition next year.
The 38-year-old forward, who recently renewed his contract with Inter Miami until 2028, said in an interview with NBC News that while the idea of playing another World Cup excites him, he will carefully evaluate his readiness before committing.
“It’s something extraordinary to be in a World Cup, and I would love to,” Messi said. “I’ll assess how I feel during preseason with Inter next year — whether I can be useful, be at 100%, and then make a decision.”
Messi led Argentina to a historic World Cup triumph in Qatar in 2022, ending decades of heartbreak for his nation. The Argentine captain, however, acknowledges that age could play a decisive role as he approaches 39 next June.
Despite his age, Messi’s passion for the game remains strong. He said he would love to help Argentina defend their crown, describing the chance as “a dream come true.”
“We’re coming off winning the last one, and to defend it again would be special,” he said. “It’s always a dream to play with the national team.”
Since debuting for Barcelona in 2004, Messi’s career has seen him collect every major club and international honor. His move to Inter Miami in 2023 gave a new boost to American soccer, adding global attention to Major League Soccer ahead of the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Messi has played 195 matches and scored 114 goals for Argentina — both national records. If he makes it to 2026, it will mark his sixth World Cup appearance, further solidifying his place as one of football’s greatest-ever players.
