Lionel Messi, the celebrated Argentine forward and captain of the reigning World Cup champions, has stated that while he yearns to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there remains a tangible possibility that he will not play.
The remarks, made during a comprehensive interview with ESPN on December 4, 2025, underscore the physical toll exacted by elite-level football and signal a realistic approach to the twilight of his international career.
The 38-year-old indicated a deep personal attachment to the tournament, but conceded that commitment to the 2026 campaign, which will be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is not yet absolute.
"I hope I can be there. I've said before that I'd love to be there," Messi told the outlet. Addressing whether he might miss the event, he offered a hopeful but cautious perspective: "At worst, I'll be there watching it live, but it will be special."
He emphasised the emotional significance of the tournament for his nation: "The World Cup is special for everyone, for any country – especially for us, because we live it in a completely different way."
His hesitation can be viewed as a pragmatic acknowledgement of the advancing years, especially since he will celebrate his 39th birthday during the tournament’s run.
Messi’s career reached its apex in 2022 when he led Argentina to their third World Cup title in Qatar, finally capturing the sport's greatest prize after four previous attempts.
That victory solidified his legacy and provided the nation with an emotional release, concluding a decades-long pursuit of the trophy.
Following the 2022 triumph, Messi had previously remarked that his duration in the sport would be determined by his body’s ability to withstand the demands of top-tier play.
The interview also included positive remarks about the strength of the current national team environment cultivated by coach Lionel Scaloni and his staff. "The truth is we have extraordinary players, and it's been shown for years," Messi remarked.
He highlighted the collective mindset: "It's a squad full of winners, with strong mindsets, who want to win more, and that's contagious... Scaloni and his staff built all of this."
At club level, Messi’s focus remains on Inter Miami, which recently secured a berth in the MLS Cup final and is set to host Vancouver. His commitment to the high-stakes club season remains integral to his physical maintenance.
The captain’s praise for the younger generation underlines the team's readiness for succession. "When a group is like this, it's easier for newcomers to fit in," Messi said, stressing the importance of depth.
"Argentina needs to take advantage of this moment. Coming off winning the World Cup gives you confidence and relief to prepare for competitions differently."
