Lionel Messi Clarifies FIFA World Cup 2026 Ambition, Ends Ongoing Speculation

Lionel Messi has revealed his desire to represent Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup but insists his participation will depend on how his body holds up in the coming year.

The 38-year-old Inter Miami forward, who inspired Argentina to glory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, said he dreams of being on the pitch when the Albiceleste defend their title in North America. However, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner admitted that the decision would ultimately rest on his physical condition ahead of the tournament.

Speaking in an interview with NBC News broadcast on Monday, Messi explained:

“It’s something extraordinary to be able to take part in a World Cup, and I would love to. I’d like to be there, to feel good and to be an important part of helping my national team — if I’m able to. I’ll assess that day by day when I begin pre-season next year with Inter Miami, and see whether I can really be 100%, whether I can be useful to the team, and then make a decision.”

Messi, who will turn 39 next June, has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning more than two decades since making his professional debut for Barcelona in 2004. He is now targeting one final appearance on football’s grandest stage.

“I’m really motivated because it’s a World Cup,” he added. “We’re coming off the back of winning the last one, and to be able to defend it again would be spectacular. It’s always a dream to play for the national team, especially in official competitions.”

After an illustrious 17-year spell at Barcelona, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 before making a high-profile move to Major League Soccer with Inter Miami in 2023.

Reflecting on life in the United States, the Argentine captain said:

“The truth is, I like everything about living here. I spent many years in Barcelona, which is an extraordinary city where I grew up and had so many special moments, and we miss it a lot. But Miami allows us to live very well — to enjoy life, stay relaxed, and let the kids be themselves and live freely every day.”

Messi, Argentina’s all-time leading appearance maker and goalscorer, has earned 195 caps for his country, scoring 114 goals.