Lionel Messi has the door open for Argentina at 2026 World Cup
Lionel Messi had initially stated that he would retire from World Cup tournaments after winning his first trophy with Argentina in December. However, recent reports suggest that he may be considering playing in the 2026 event after all.
Lionel Messi Contemplates Playing in 2026 World Cup after Historic Victory with Argentina
Last month, Lionel Messi finally achieved his long-awaited dream of lifting the World Cup trophy, as he led Argentina to victory over France in a thrilling final held in Qatar. The superstar forward scored twice in a 3-3 draw, taking his tournament tally to seven goals, and also converted a penalty in the shootout as his team dethroned Les Bleus.
At 35 years old, Messi became the first player to win two Golden Balls, awarded to the tournament's best player, as he inspired Argentina in what he previously stated would be his last World Cup. However, recent reports suggest that he may be open to the possibility of participating in the 2026 event, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
While Messi will be nearing 40 by the time Argentina looks to defend their title in 2026, their head coach Scaloni has expressed hope that the star player may still be able to participate. "I think Messi can get to the next World Cup," he stated, "It will depend a lot on what he wants, on whether he feels good."
At 35 years old, Lionel Messi made history by becoming the first man to win two Golden Balls, awarded to the best player of the World Cup, as he led Argentina to their first victory in the tournament. Despite previously stating that this would be his last World Cup, recent reports suggest that he may be considering playing in the 2026 event, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Messi will be close to 40 years old by the time Argentina looks to defend their title, but head coach Scaloni has not given up hope of having the superstar forward on the team. "I think Messi can get to the next World Cup," he stated, "It will depend a lot on what he wants, on whether he feels good. The door will always be open. He is happy on the pitch and it would be very nice for us."
