Lionel Messi has not yet confirmed whether he will play in the next World Cup, even though many expect him to make Argentina’s final squad. With two months left before the tournament, uncertainty remains over whether the Inter Miami star will take part in what could be the final World Cup of his career.
Neither Messi nor Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed his participation. Instead, Messi appears determined to make the decision only when he feels fully convinced and free of doubt.
Messi will turn 39 in June, and that has naturally raised questions about his readiness for another World Cup campaign. He has spent the past three years at Inter Miami, where the level of competition differs from Europe’s top leagues.
Messi has continued to show his importance for Argentina during the World Cup qualifiers. It describes him as the team’s leader and reference point, while also noting that he continues to deliver results and assists regularly in Major League Soccer.
The report suggests that physical condition is one of Messi’s main concerns. His body no longer responds as it did in earlier tournaments, and that reality appears to weigh heavily on his mind.
Javier Mascherano, his coach in Miami, has reportedly tried to manage him carefully so he can stay in strong condition. Still, Messi will step aside if he believes he cannot help the team the way he wants.
Scaloni wants Messi to treat the tournament as his last dance and enjoy the experience. That approach could ease some of the pressure that followed Messi through previous World Cups.
The emotional burden may also feel lighter now. Messi has already won the trophy that completes his career, which means he may enter the tournament with greater calm than in earlier years.
Messi wants to play one last World Cup, but only if he believes he can leave a strong impression. That means the final decision will depend on how he evaluates his level, fitness and ability to contribute on the biggest stage.
For now, the football world is waiting. If Messi confirms his place, Argentina’s title defence will gain another powerful storyline before the tournament begins.
