The 38-year-old forward for Inter Miami and the Argentina national team, Lionel Messi, has expressed his stance on the possibility of participating in the 2026 World Cup with the national squad.
I don't want to be a burden, so to speak. I want to feel good physically, to be sure that I can help and contribute to the group, to the squad. But obviously, I'm aware that it's a World Cup, and it's special, and that the World Cup is the biggest competition there is. So, I'm excited, but taking it one day at a time.
Lionel Messi has represented Argentina since 2005. Over his international career, he has appeared in 195 matches across various tournaments, scoring 114 goals and providing 63 assists. According to Transfermarkt, his market value stands at €18 million.
The final stage of the World Cup, featuring 48 national teams, will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
For the first time in history, the World Cup will be hosted across three countries – the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Recall that Argentina currently holds the title of world champions, having defeated France 4-2 after extra time and 4-2 on penalties in the final of the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
