Lionel Messi continues to chase international football glory nearly two decades into his illustrious career, expressing hopes to participate in the 2026 World Cup hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. As the Argentine icon approaches his 39th birthday, he acknowledges that his age and fitness will play a crucial role in determining his involvement in the tournament, where Argentina will aim to defend their title from 2022.
Messi recently confirmed that he has extended his contract with Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami until 2028, indicating he still has no immediate plans for retirement. In an interview with NBC News, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner conveyed a strong desire to represent his country once more on the global stage. “It’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup, and I would love to,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of being physically fit and useful to the team before making any commitments.
The anticipation surrounding Messi’s potential participation grows as he reflects on Argentina’s remarkable achievement in Qatar, where they triumphed over France in a thrilling penalty shootout to win the World Cup. For Messi, winning that tournament fulfilled a lifelong dream and completed his illustrious career at an international level, complementing the numerous accolades he has secured throughout his time at both Barcelona and PSG before joining Inter Miami.
With a professional career spanning over 20 years, Messi debuted at just 17 years old in 2004 and quickly became a pivotal player in the sport. His journey has brought renewed attention to MLS in North America, a region preparing to host the World Cup and hoping to bolster soccer’s popularity.
Previous articles have highlighted Messi’s determination and passion for the game, with discussions among fans and analysts about the significance of his contributions to soccer in the U.S. As soccer enthusiasts eagerly await news regarding his decision, they remain optimistic that Messi’s influence will inspire future generations, regardless of whether he steps onto the World Cup field again.
The upcoming 2026 World Cup not only serves as an opportunity for Messi to showcase his talent one last time but also stands as a celebration of his monumental career. Whether he plays or not, Messi’s legacy and dedication to the sport will undoubtedly continue to resonate in the hearts of fans around the globe.
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