Lionel Messi hopes to lead Argentina in their 2026 World Cup defense only if he is fully fit

Record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi remains hopeful of leading Argentina in their defense of the FIFA World Cup title at the 2026 edition of the tournament, set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

However, the 38-year-old captain made it clear that he will only feature in the World Cup if he feels physically capable of contributing to the team. Messi, who will turn 39 before the tournament, said he plans to evaluate his fitness and form in the months leading up to the event.

“Well, the truth is that yes, it’s something extraordinary to be able to win a World Cup, 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,” Messi said during a recent media interaction.

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“I am 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 percent, if I can be useful to the group and the national team, and then make a decision. Obviously, I am really eager because it’s a World Cup. We are coming off winning the last one, and being able to defend it again would be spectacular. It’s always a dream to play for the national team, especially in official competitions, so hopefully God will allow me to do it once again,” he added.

Lionel Messi: “I hope God grants me the opportunity to participate in the World Cup one more time.” 🥹🏆 pic.twitter.com/yOp9oC07tk

— MessiMania (@M10Update) October 28, 2025

Messi’s move to Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2023 — orchestrated in part by Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham — has proven to be a massive success both on and off the pitch. His arrival ignited what fans dubbed “Messimania,” with his iconic No. 10 jersey becoming the best-selling shirt in MLS history.

Since joining the club, Messi has led Inter Miami to the 2023 Leagues Cup title and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, while also claiming the 2025 MLS Golden Boot after scoring 29 goals in 28 matches. The Argentine legend won the 2024 MLS Most Valuable Player (MVP) award and is on track to become the first player in league history to win the honor in consecutive seasons.

Messi recently committed his future to Miami, signing a new three-year contract that keeps him with the franchise through the end of the 2028 season.

“I have always said I’ll base my decision on how I feel day-to-day — physically and mentally — to continue playing and being part of this club,” Messi explained. “Honestly, I felt really good during the year. I’m happy living in Miami, as is my family, and honestly, the decision was easy.”

Messi fulfilled his lifelong dream in 2022, captaining Argentina to their first World Cup title since 1986. He was named the tournament’s Best Player, earning his second Golden Ball award. The national team’s all-time leader in both goals and appearances, Messi has now scored 114 goals in 195 matches since making his Argentina debut in 2005.

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