“I Would Love To Be There, But I’ll Listen To My Body,” Says the Argentine Legend
Football icon Lionel Messi has finally addressed the swirling rumours about his participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026, revealing that he wants to play for Argentina but will make a final decision based on his physical condition next year.
In an interview with NBC News, the 38-year-old Inter Miami forward said he remains eager to represent the Albiceleste in the World Cup that will be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada. However, Messi made it clear that his body’s readiness will be the ultimate factor in deciding his future.
🇦🇷 Messi’s World Cup 2026 Dream
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Lionel Messi |
| Age | 38 (Turns 39 in June 2026) |
| Current Club | Inter Miami (MLS) |
| National Team | Argentina |
| World Cup Titles | 🏆 2022 Champion |
| Total International Goals | 114 |
| International Appearances | 195 |
| Decision Timeline | After Inter Miami’s 2026 Preseason |
🗣️ Messi’s Words: “It’s Something Extraordinary”
Messi expressed his passion for continuing his journey with Argentina:
“It’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup, and I would love to. I would like to be there, to be well, and be an important part of helping my national team — if I am there. I’m going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start preseason next year with Inter. I’ll see if I can really be 100%, if I can be useful to the group and to the national team, and then make a decision.”
🌍 The Desire to Defend the Crown
Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar 2022, fulfilling a lifelong dream and cementing his status among football’s all-time greats.
He now dreams of one last run:
“We’re coming off winning the last World Cup, and being able to defend it on the field again is spectacular. It’s always a dream to play with the national team, especially in official competitions.”
🏙️ Life in Miami: A New Chapter for Messi
Messi, who began his professional career at Barcelona in 2004, spent nearly two decades in Spain before moving to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 and then Inter Miami in 2023.
The Argentine superstar reflected positively on his new life:
“I like everything about living here. Miami allows us to live well, enjoy life, and be calm. The kids are happy and can live day to day freely.”
⚽ Messi’s Legendary Career in Numbers
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Professional Debut | 2004 (Barcelona) |
| Major Clubs | Barcelona, PSG, Inter Miami |
| Total International Caps | 195 |
| Goals for Argentina | 114 |
| Ballon d’Or Wins | 8 |
| World Cup Titles | 1 (2022) |
| Copa América Titles | 1 (2021) |
🔍 What’s Next for Lionel Messi
- Messi will continue playing with Inter Miami through the 2025 MLS season.
- A final decision on his World Cup 2026 participation is expected in early 2026.
- His inclusion could make him one of the oldest active players to feature in a World Cup.
- Argentina’s campaign to defend their title will begin in North America — a symbolic home for Messi’s current career phase.