Lionel Messi added one of the football trophies he had never won to his incredible tally in December 2022 when he and his Argentina teammates won the World Cup in Qatar.
Now 37 and ending his playing career with Major League Soccer's Inter Miami, the generational striker's participation in the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States remains a mystery.
Messi will be 39 years old during the tournament and could very easily skip this edition to ensure that his last World Cup act will lift the historic trophy at the Lusail Stadium.
On the other hand, it is fair to say that if he decides to declare for the next edition after a year and a half, he will be welcomed with open arms by the players and the fans.
Former player-turned-spectator Sergio Agüero is looking forward to seeing him take part in another major international tournament. Agüero played alongside Messi for the national team before retiring from football aged 33 in 2021 due to heart problems.
And the Manchester City legend told ESPN 12 (per goal) that he is 100% convinced Messi will play a role in Argentina's bid to defend their crown.
"I think Messi will go until 2026, he will take care of himself," explained the former striker.
“He's not going to be the Lion he's always been, but give him a couple of free kicks or a couple of assists and he'll take them.
“He can get there physically. If he wants, he will do it, because he takes good care of himself.
How many World Cups has Lionel Messi played in?
Messi has featured in five editions so far: 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and Argentina's victorious 2022 campaign.
During the first World Cup tournament in Germany, the world was not yet aware of the scale it could take.
However, during the tours of South Africa, Brazil, and Russia, he was one of the biggest names in history and many wondered if he would ever lift the trophy.
This question was finally answered in the last tournament, fulfilling a great mission for the striker. If he participates in the North American editions in 2026, he will have participated in six editions.
Why Messi will not participate in the World Cup 2026?
There are pros and cons to be considered for Messi.
If participating in the 2026 World Cup:
- He would set the all-time record for most World Cup appearances with six. He is currently tied with Lothar Mattheus, Antonio Carbajal, Andres Guardado, Rafael Marquez, and Cristiano Ronaldo on five occasions.
- He can play a World Cup match at the stadium of his current club, Inter Miami.
- He can extend his all-time record for most World Cup appearances (26) ahead of Matthaus (25), Miroslav Klose (24), and Paolo Maldini (23) while keeping out Cristiano Ronaldo (22) if his counterpart his career is also gone. . in a record sixth inning in his 40 years.
- Fan interest in his participation will be at its peak in the North American market.
However, there are several reasons why Messi is not declaring for a sixth World Cup:
- He can retire from football at the end of his current contract with Inter Miami at the end of 2025 if he wants.
- His final contribution to the World Cup would be his victory, which would allow him to leave on cloud nine.
- Opening the door to young Argentine attackers Talenti will allow them to gain invaluable experience, now that the drought of 36 years is over.
- If he does not feel at 100% in 2026, he can avoid the risk of ending his World Cup career on a mediocre note at the age of 39.
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