Lionel Messi reveals what it will take for him to play at the 2026 World Cup with Argentina amid uncertainty over Inter Miami star’s future
Lionel Messi has stated that he is eager to play for Argentina in the 2026 World Cup next summer, calling it “wonderful” to have the opportunity to defend his country’s title as World Champions and participate in the competition for the sixth time in his illustrious career.
However, the Inter Miami star clarified that in order to “contribute and be important” for Lionel Scaloni’s team, he needs to feel good about himself physically if he is to participate.
In an interview with Fabrizio Romano, Messi stated that, should the conditions be favourable for the 38-year-old to star for the 2022 World Cup winners, he would really like to travel to the US, Canada, and Mexico with Argentina next summer.
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Messi scored twice in four games for his country in 2025, demonstrating his continued excellence.
He had not yet publicly said that he wanted to play in the World Cup, even though he had declared that the 3-0 qualifying victory against Venezuela in September would be his last competitive match at home.
With 39 goals in 44 games across all competitions in 2025, the Inter Miami star has been in incredible form in the MLS this season.
Messi hopes to have a comparable effect for Argentina next summer if he keeps playing at such a high level for his team.
When Romano asked Messi what variables would affect his decision to play in the World Cup next summer, Messi responded, “Obviously, I have so much desire and excitement to be there, it is obvious, but I want to go there feeling good about myself, so that I can contribute and be important.”
I believe it has to do with maintaining my physical health and ensuring that I can provide my best effort.
Messi responded, “he World Cup is always special, the best, playing with the national team, in official competitions and more so in a World Cup,” when asked about the prospect of participating in World Cup games in Miami.
With all of its implications, I believe the World Cup will be exceptional. Because I’m in the United States, I believe that on an organisational level, it will be something exceptional, even if it will be a very long travel.
If I have to play different games in Canada or Mexico, the trips will also be very lengthy.
However, as I’m saying, it would be fantastic to be able to participate in another World Cup and defend the most recent world championship that we were fortunate enough to win. and to have the opportunity to take part in another.”
Romano also enquired about Messi’s future at Inter Miami during the interview, following the Argentine’s recent commitment to a new three-year contract with the MLS team.
In all honesty, I’m glad to have signed a new deal, and it was a simple choice. Because, you know, we’re doing great in the family, in our daily lives, and at the club as well. having fun, feeling healthy, and achieving favourable outcomes.
“And the fact is, given all that has happened since my arrival and that of my teammates, which was a huge transition, being able to continue playing here and helping the club grow is something very good, so I’m extremely glad.
“To be honest, it wasn’t hard since, from what I’m telling you, I’m really happy here, and we aim to keep helping this growth, both on and off the pitch.
“Hopefully, we can become known as [Inter Miami] by winning the MLS Cup trophy. Since it would support the club’s current growing process, it would be fantastic for the club to be able to accomplish it.
With the trophy from the MLS Cup, hopefully we can recreate the image of Inter Miami. Since it would support the club’s current growing process, it would be fantastic for the club to be able to accomplish it.
The entire locker room would be ecstatic if the team won a significant championship.
Gaining another title would be fantastic for me personally. So perhaps we’ll post a photo like that.”
What Should We Expect Next From Messi
Messi will have a crucial time ahead of him as he tries to maintain his dominant form with Inter Miami if his domestic performance is to be a major determining factor in whether or not he decides to compete in North America next summer.
Messi has made an incredible 195 appearances for Argentina, scoring 114 goals. If Scaloni’s team does well in the competition next summer, Messi hopes to surpass 200 caps overall.
The 38-year-old’s impact is still evident, and based on his most recent remarks, it seems that the legend is still active on the global scene.
