Lionel Messi Discusses Potential Participation in 2026 World Cup
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has left the possibility of competing at the next World Cup open, despite being 39 years old when the tournament arrives.
The 36-year-old achieved the pinnacle of his career by leading the Albiceleste to their third World Cup title in Qatar 2022. Initially, he announced that it would be his last tournament. However, his stance has evolved, and he is now contemplating the idea of playing in the upcoming edition.
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In an interview with Infobae’s Pollo Alvarez, Messi explained that his decision to participate in the 2026 World Cup in the USA/Mexico/Canada will depend on his physical condition and overall feelings.
“It depends on how I feel, how I am physically, and being realistic with myself,” Messi stated. “There’s still a lot of time left… in quotes, ‘a lot and a little,’ because it goes by quickly, but there is still some time, and I don’t know how I will be at that moment.
“Age is also a reality that is there, even though it’s just a number. The matches I will play now aren’t the same as those I played when I was in Europe, competing every three days, either in the Champions League or in the league, whether in France or Spain.
“But it depends on how I feel and what I feel being alongside my teammates, and seeing if I am still up to the level or not. Let’s see!”
Meanwhile, Messi also discussed how he deals with opponents attempting to disrupt his game on the field by engaging in verbal tactics.