Lionel Messi reveals 'the truth' on 2026 World Cup status with Argentina with concern over 2022 champion's participation next summer
Published 28/10/2025 at 10:50 GMT
React to this story
Lionel Messi looks set to play at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The Inter Miami star, 38, says he is "eager" to compete at the tournament as Argentina aim to defend the trophy. Messi recently signed a new deal with Inter Miami that will take him through the 2028 season and is in the running to be crowned MLS MVP for a second straight season.
'The best player ever' - Mac Allister picks his side in Messi-Ronaldo debate
Video credit: TNT Sports
Argentina’s Lionel Messi has confirmed his intention to play at the 2026 World Cup.
Messi was instrumental as Argentina lifted the trophy in 2022 with victory over France in the final.
He will turn 39 during next year’s tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and has previously given no guarantees about his involvement.
However, fitness permitting, he has said he hopes to play as Argentina aim to become only the third team to win back-to-back World Cups.
"The truth is that yes, it's something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup," he told NBC News.
"And I would like to be there. To feel well and to be an important part of helping my national team, if I am there.
"I am going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start pre-season next year with Inter and see if I can really be 100%. I'm really eager because it's the World Cup.
/origin-imgresizer.tntsports.io/2025/09/05/image-d5de056b-4a52-41b7-bf3d-26a2b5c8b97f-85-2560-1440.jpeg)
Highlights: Messi nets twice in possible last game for Argentina on home soil
Video credit: SNTV
"We're coming off winning the last World Cup, and being able to defend it on the pitch again is spectacular because it's always a dream to play with the national team, especially in official competitions, so hopefully God will allow me to do it once again."
Messi recently signed a new deal with Inter Miami that will take him through the 2028 season.
He has continued to shine in MLS, winning the 2025 MLS Golden Boot after scoring 29 goals in 28 regular season games.
He is also bidding to become the first player in MLS history to win the MVP Trophy for two seasons in a row.
He played his final competitive match in Argentina in September and finished CONMEBOL qualifying as the top scorer with eight goals.
"I've always said that I'll base my decision [about playing] on how I feel day-to-day and how I feel physically and mentally to continue playing and to continue being part of this club," he added.
"Honestly, I felt really good during the year. I'm happy living in Miami, as is my family, and honestly, the decision was easy."
Inter Miami face Nashville in the first leg of their MLS play-off on Saturday, November 1.
---
Stream the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League and more on TNT Sports and discovery+.
Related Topics
Advertisement
Advertisement