At 38 years old, Lionel Messi continues to defy time, rewriting the limits of football greatness. In a recent interview with Mundo Deportivo, the Argentine superstar revealed his strong desire to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Despite his age and long career, Messi’s passion for the sport and his love for Argentina remain undiminished.
“I would like to be fit and play an important role for the national team. I’m very excited, because it’s a World Cup. We won the last tournament, and it would be great to defend our title,” said Messi. His words have sparked excitement and hope among millions of fans who dream of seeing him lead Argentina once again on football’s biggest stage. The 2022 World Cup in Qatar remains one of the most emotional and iconic moments of Messi’s career. Argentina’s triumph, capped by a dramatic final victory over France, cemented Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest—if not the greatest—footballers in history. Yet for Messi, the story may not be over. The thought of playing one more World Cup, possibly his last, fills him with motivation.
Messi’s path from the streets of Rosario to lifting the World Cup trophy is a story known to every football fan. Born in 1987, he joined Barcelona’s youth academy at just 13 years old, overcoming health challenges that could have ended his career before it began. His exceptional skill, vision, and creativity transformed him into the face of modern football. Over the years, Messi has achieved everything a player could dream of: ten La Liga titles, four Champions League trophies, a Copa América triumph, and finally the long-awaited World Cup. Each milestone has carried emotional significance, but the 2022 victory in Qatar marked the pinnacle of his career. It was the moment he had been chasing for nearly two decades—the ultimate redemption after years of heartbreak in international tournaments.
His leadership during the 2022 World Cup inspired a new generation of Argentine players. Messi’s influence extended beyond his goals and assists; it was his calm authority, unwavering determination, and connection with the fans that made the victory so powerful. After the final whistle in Lusail, millions wept with joy as Messi lifted the golden trophy, ending Argentina’s 36-year wait for glory.
Now, as he reflects on the possibility of playing in 2026, Messi sees it not as a burden but as a new challenge. He has transitioned into a more experienced, strategic role—less focused on pure speed, more on intelligence and positioning. His time at Inter Miami has helped him adapt to a slower rhythm, allowing him to maintain his fitness and competitive edge despite his age.The 2026 World Cup will be unique in many ways. With 48 teams, three host countries, and a broader global audience than ever, it promises to be a historic event. For Messi, it also offers a symbolic opportunity: to end his international career where he currently plays club football—the United States.
Physically, the challenge is immense. Few players in football history have competed at the highest level at 39 years old. However, Messi has shown remarkable discipline and professionalism throughout his career. His training routines, nutrition, and understanding of his body have allowed him to perform at an elite level long after most players retire. Mentally, Messi seems as hungry as ever. The idea of representing Argentina once again, surrounded by a talented generation led by players like Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, and Lautaro Martínez, fuels his motivation. He is aware that the 2026 World Cup could serve as a bridge between two generations—the veteran leadership of Messi and the youthful energy of Argentina’s new stars.
For Messi, the World Cup is more than a tournament—it’s the stage where dreams meet destiny. His presence transcends football; he is an ambassador of hope, humility, and excellence. From the barrios of Rosario to the global spotlight, Messi’s career has inspired countless young athletes to believe in hard work and perseverance. If he steps onto the field in 2026, it would mark his sixth World Cup appearance—an extraordinary achievement that would place him in a class of his own. More importantly, it would represent a final farewell to the sport that has defined his life.
Fans around the world are already imagining the moment: Messi wearing the iconic sky-blue and white jersey once more, leading Argentina onto the pitch with the same quiet determination that has defined his career. Whether or not he lifts the trophy again, his mere presence would make the tournament unforgettable. At 38, Lionel Messi continues to embody the essence of football—a sport driven by passion, resilience, and love. As he sets his sights on the 2026 World Cup, one thing is certain: the world will be watching, waiting, and cheering for one last masterpiece from the man who changed the game forever.
