Despite recognizing that time is not on his side, Lionel Messi is not dismissing the possibility of making another attempt at World Cup glory with Argentina in 2026.
Messi, who secured his eighth Ballon d’Or recently, lifted the World Cup nearly a year ago, showcasing a stellar performance for Argentina in the final against France in Doha.
At the time, the 36-year-old had hinted that the tournament in Qatar would mark his final participation, indicating that he wouldn’t be part of the subsequent event, which is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.However, after making the transition to Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami and maintaining his contributions to the national team during the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, he emphasises that the possibility of his participation still exists.
“I’m not thinking about the World Cup and I’m not saying 100 percent that I won’t be there because anything can happen. Because of my age, the most normal thing is that I won’t be there. Then we’ll see. “
Messi in an interview with Argentina’s Star
“I’m going to arrive at an age that, normally, doesn’t allow me to play in the World Cup. I said I don’t think I’m going to be there. It looked like after the World Cup I was retiring and it was the opposite. Now I want to be there more than ever,”
The Argentina captain expressed his concentration on the Copa America scheduled for June, which will take place in the United States.
Messi & Inter Miami
Since joining the league in July, the Argentine has made a significant impact in MLS, clinching the inaugural Leagues Cup and securing the Golden Boot of the tournament. While MLS may not reach the caliber of Barcelona or PSG, it boasts top talent and is steadily expanding its global presence in the world of football. Notably, premier players are making transitions to Europe, and the league’s Apple TV deal is increasing visibility for all participating teams. Despite these achievements, he pledges to maintain a high level of performance for his country in preparation for the 2024 Copa America.
Messi’s 8th Ballon D’Or
Lionel Messi, the captain of Argentina, clinched a historic eighth Ballon d’Or for the world’s best player, surpassing Erling Haaland of Manchester City, who was the UEFA Player of the Year and a treble winner.
Messi, representing Inter Miami and previously awarded in 2021, played a crucial part in leading Argentina to their first World Cup title in 36 years. This triumph came as they defeated defending champions France in the final last year.
At 36, Messi achieved a historic milestone as the first MLS-based player to secure the prestigious prize. However, this triumph is primarily attributed to his exceptional performances with Argentina in Qatar. The award was presented to Messi in Paris by David Beckham, a former Manchester United player and co-owner of Inter Miami.
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