Lionel Messi’s World Cup Future Uncertain

The question of whether Lionel Messi will participate in the next summer’s World Cup remains unresolved. However, there’s a good chance he’ll be there watching Argentina as they aim to defend their title.

At 38, Messi had hinted he might not play in the 2026 World Cup, but he was noncommittal about his plans before Friday’s draw in Washington, DC. In an interview with ESPN, he expressed, “I hope to be there. I would love to be present.” He added, “In the worst-case scenario, we’ll be watching it live. That would still be special.”

The atmosphere surrounding the World Cup is unique, he noted, emphasizing the significance of the event for all countries, and especially for Argentina. “We experience it in a completely different way,” he said.

Messi played a crucial role in Argentina’s victory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, marking the first such title in his illustrious career.

The upcoming 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with Argentina expected to field a competitive squad.

In that ESPN discussion, Messi praised his national team. “We truly have exceptional players, and that shows in how we’ve performed over the years, especially since Lionel Scaloni took charge,” he explained.

He noted the winning mentality of his teammates, saying, “This team is full of winners with a strong mindset, and that energy is contagious. You can see it in training, the way they push themselves and give everything.” It’s really impressive, honestly.

Argentina is set in Pot 1 for the draw. After their 2022 triumph, Messi transitioned to Major League Soccer, joining Inter Miami CF in 2023. Recently, he led the club to the MLS Cup final, where they’ll compete against the Vancouver Whitecaps in South Florida this weekend.