Messi declares he is ready for the 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi confirms his strong desire to participate in the 2026 World Cup with Argentina, despite approaching 39 years old, aiming to defend the world champion title once again.

In an interview with the program NBC Nightly News conducted by journalist Tom Llamas, Lionel Messi shared many thoughts about his future at Inter Miami and the possibility of playing in the 2026 World Cup hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The 38-year-old star admitted he still harbors the ambition to defend the world championship with Argentina, but everything will depend on his physical condition and form when the new season begins. “I always feel honored whenever I wear the national team jersey. If my body allows, I want to continue supporting and contributing to Argentina at the 2026 World Cup,” Messi stated.

Messi said he will assess his fitness at the start of the next season when he returns to training with Inter Miami. “I will see if I am at 100% fitness. If I feel ready, I will fight with all my strength to be part of it,” he said.

After helping La Albiceleste win the title at Qatar 2022, Messi believes that returning to the biggest stage once more would be “an extraordinary thing.” “Defending the title on the field is a special feeling. I am always grateful for the chance to live that dream,” he confided.

Although past the peak of his career, Messi continues to perform brilliantly at Inter Miami. In the 2025 season, he scored 29 goals and provided 15 assists in just 28 MLS matches, achievements that helped the Florida club advance deeply into the playoffs. The club also recently extended the contract of the Argentine superstar until 2028, when he will turn 41. “My family and I are truly happy in Miami. Life here is very peaceful, and staying was a natural decision,” Messi added.

Besides sharing about his future, the 8-time Ballon d'Or winner expressed his wish for MLS to expand its spending limits to attract more top stars. “If clubs had more freedom in signing players, American soccer would develop much faster,” he commented.

For now, Messi and Inter Miami are aiming to conquer the MLS Cup. And even if his participation in the 2026 World Cup is uncertain, fans still believe “El Pulga” will continue to write glorious chapters in his illustrious career.