Messi eyes World Cup defence for Argentina, despite age, fitness concerns

Lionel Messi, who is nearly 20 years into his career and still chasing international success, declares that he hopes to compete in the FIFA World Cup of 2026 in North America, acknowledging that his age and fitness will determine how important it will be to Argentina’s 2022 title defense.

The legendary Argentinian player recently extended his contract with MLS side Inter Miami until 2028, saying he is not yet considering retiring despite turning 39 in June.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner told NBC News that he would check his health before making a decision about participating in the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The Argentinian captain said in the interview that was made public on Monday, “It’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup, and I would love to.”

If I’m there, I want to be there, to be well, and play a significant role in the success of my team. When I begin the preseason with Inter, I’ll be looking at whether I can really be 100% or be very helpful, and then make a decision based on that.

Because it’s a World Cup, I’m very eager. Being able to defend it on the field once more is amazing because it’s always a dream to play for the national team. “We’re coming off winning the last one.

Messi started out for Barcelona at age 17, before moving to Paris St.Germain, where he later joined Inter Miami in 2023. He has had a professional career that spans more than 20 years. In preparation for the World Cup in 2015, he sparked new interest in the American league, sparking a crucial moment for the sport there.

While Messi has numerous club and individual accolades, he struggled to find success abroad until winning the Copa America in 2021 and the FIFA World Cup in Qatar by beating France 4-2 on penalties.

Messi described the victory as “the dream of my life.”

It is also true that, with Barcelona, I had the opportunity to accomplish everything at an individual level and at a team level, and that is what every player strives for. It’s “to be world champion” when you ask a player what their dream is.

Messi has played 195 games for his country and scored a record 114 goals. His sixth appearance at the World Cup would be in a 2026 one.