Messi Signals Desire to Play in 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi has spoken in several interviews over the past few months about the possibility of playing in the 2026 World Cup. He stated that his participation will depend on being physically 100% fit. Last month, in an interview with NBC, Messi explicitly mentioned his wish to play in the 2026 tournament. Now, the Argentine legend has conveyed this desire in a different manner.

In a commercial unveiling Argentina’s new team jersey, Messi appears alongside players and Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association. When a card shows the number ‘four’, Messi remarks, ‘I want this’. Many interpret this brief comment as an indication of Messi’s intent to participate in the 2026 World Cup, reflecting his dream of guiding Argentina to a fourth World Cup victory.

Currently 38, Messi has won the World Cup with Argentina at both youth and senior levels, and also claimed a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Over a 20-year international career, he has competed in five World Cups—2006 (Germany), 2010 (South Africa), 2014 (Brazil), 2018 (Russia), and 2022 (Qatar).

Messi now aims for a sixth World Cup, scheduled for June next year across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. During Argentina’s end-of-year friendly tour, Messi will lead the team in Angola, where a match on 14 November will commemorate Angola’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

Additionally, coach Lionel Scaloni has announced the inclusion of three new players in the squad. This tour will also serve as an opportunity to assess the performance of younger players.

GLIVE/TSN