Lionel Messi lays down his conditions to play in the 2026 World Cup

At 38, Lionel Messi does not rule out taking part in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Canada and Mexico. But the captain of Inter Miami is cautious: he will only rejoin the Argentine squad if he feels « in full physical shape ».

In an interview with Sport, the 2022 world champion expressed his desire to relive the unique emotion of a World Cup, while remaining realistic about his fitness. « Yes, of course I’d like to be there. It’s a special competition, especially after winning it. But I don’t want to be a burden for the team. I want to be sure I can help and contribute », he explained.

Messi, already boasting a legendary international career, could become, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, the second player in history to play in six World Cups. The Argentine, whose MLS season does not follow the same calendar as European leagues, said he would decide « day to day », depending on his physical condition, whether to take part in this North American World Cup, which could mark the end of his national-team career.