Lionel Messi, Argentina’s soccer star and one of the greatest players of all time, has expressed his desire to play at the 2026 World Cup, but admitted that his fitness will be crucial in deciding whether to help Argentina defend their world title.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner revealed that he will assess his condition over the next year and then make a final decision.
“It’s amazing to be part of the World Cup and I would love to play again. However, it will all depend on how I feel and if I can be at a level that can help the team,” Messi said in an interview with NBC News.
The Argentinian legend turns 39 next June. He recently extended his contract with Inter from Miami, making it clear that he does not plan to end his career yet.
“When I start preparations with Inter, I will see if I can be 100 percent ready and useful. If I feel I can – I will be there,” added Messi.
His arrival in the MLS league last year generated huge interest and significantly increased the popularity of American soccer, further increasing the euphoria ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Messi has more than two decades of professional career behind him. He made his debut for Barcelona in 2004, at the tender age of 17. After a rich career at the Catalan club, he briefly played for PSG, before moving to the United States.
Although in his career he won almost everything that could be won – both at the club and individual level – Messi waited a long time for the biggest representative trophy.
That changed in 2021, when he won the Copa America with Argentina, and the crowning glory of his career came a year later, at the World Cup in Qatar. Then Argentina, after a penalty, defeated France (4:2) and won the third title of world champion.
“It was the dream of my life. It was the only thing I was missing. I was lucky to win everything with Barcelona and as an individual, but to become a world champion – that’s every player’s dream,” admitted Messi.
For the Argentine national team, Messi has played 195 games and scored a record 114 goals. Should he appear at the 2026 World Cup, it will be his sixth appearance at football’s biggest competition – another historic moment in a career that is still ongoing.
(Vijesti.ba)
