BUENOS AIRES (Kashmir English): Argentine football icon Lionel Messi has not ruled out his appearance at the football’s grandest tournament next year, possibly sixth, as he said he will evaluate his physical condition before making a final decision.
Messi, who turns 39 next June, remains hopeful of defending his country’s title in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Speaking to NBC News, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said he would assess his fitness early next year before committing to the World Cup scheduled to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
“It’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup, and I would love to,” Messi said. “I’m going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start preseason next year with Inter Miami and see if I can really be 100%, if I can be useful — and then make a decision.”
Messi’s contract with Inter Miami
Having a career spanning two decades, Messi has recently extended his contract with Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami until 2028.
Messi’s professional journey began in 2004 when he debuted for Barcelona at the age of just 17. Over two decades, he became one of the sport’s most decorated players, winning multiple UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles before brief stints at Paris Saint-Germain and now Inter Miami.
To date, Messi has represented his country in 195 international matches, scoring a record 114 goals.
Should he take the field in 2026, it would mark his sixth consecutive World Cup appearance, further elevating his status as one of the greatest players in football history.
