Lionel Messi has once again addressed speculation surrounding his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting that age and physical condition may keep him from competing in what would be his sixth tournament.
“Same as I said before about the World Cup—that I don’t think I’ll play another,” Messi stated in a post-match interview. “Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it. But well, we’re almost there so I’m excited and motivated to play it.”
Messi’s comments came during an emotional farewell on home soil, where he scored twice and was visibly moved by the crowd’s tribute.
The match, held at Estadio Mas Monumental in Buenos Aires, marked Argentina’s final competitive home fixture in the current qualifying cycle. Messi was joined by his family during the pre-match ceremonies, adding to the sentimentality of the occasion.
The 38-year-old forward, currently playing for Inter Miami, emphasized that no final decision has been made. Instead, he’s focused on staying honest with himself and evaluating his condition day by day. “When I feel good, I enjoy it, but when I don’t, honestly, I don’t have a good time, so I prefer not to be there if I don’t feel good,” he said.
Messi outlined his short-term plans, noting that the remainder of the MLS season and the upcoming preseason will be crucial in shaping his final call. “Match by match, I’ll finish the season, then I’ll have preseason, and there will be six months left. So we’ll see how I feel.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged the significance of the moment, stating, “This is a match which Leo has said will be emotional, special, nice… More than anyone, I will enjoy it. Having been able to coach him has honestly been a pleasure”.
Messi’s potential absence from the 2026 tournament—co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico—would mark the end of an era. He previously led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar 2022 and has played in five World Cups since 2006.
As speculation continues, fans and football analysts alike await Messi’s final decision, which he indicated will come after the current MLS season and preseason preparations in 2026. Until then, the football world watches with admiration and hope.
Story written by Adzadu Bright Eden Kobby Kyei News
