Lionel Messi Casts Doubt on Playing in 2026 World Cup

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has offered his most candid assessment yet regarding his potential participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, strongly suggesting that his advancing age and physical condition may prevent him from competing. Speaking to ESPN ahead of Inter Miami’s MLS Cup final, the legendary forward admitted the decision is uncertain.

“I hope I can be there. I’ve said before I’d love to be there,” Messi stated. “At worst, I’ll be there watching it live, but it will be special.” This restrained reflection marks a shift for a player renowned for defying limits throughout his career.

Messi will turn 39 during the 2026 tournament in North America. While he remains a dominant force in MLS, he was frank about the gruelling demands of another World Cup cycle. His approach is now one of careful management. “I’m going to assess it day to day,” Messi explained. “Being sincere and realistic, I need to feel good.”

Lionel Messi was asked if Argentina can go for the World Cup again 👀 pic.twitter.com/4W34sfxNpj

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 4, 2025

He highlighted the challenge of MLS’s atypical calendar, noting that having a preseason in the middle of the year “changes everything, it’s like starting from zero,” but expressed hope it would aid his longevity.

Despite doubts about his own role, Messi expressed full confidence in the Argentine squad’s ability to defend their title. He praised the team’s unwavering desire under coach Lionel Scaloni and the seamless integration of new players into a “group of winners.”

Read: Lionel Messi Hopes to Play in 2026 World Cup

However, he issued a stark warning about the tournament’s inherent unpredictability. “A World Cup is very difficult. Any national team can complicate things and knock you out,” Messi said, recalling that Argentina’s 2022 victory required luck and clutch penalty saves from goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez. He listed Spain, England, France, Germany, and Brazil as the strongest contenders.