Lionel Messi Ready for 2026 FIFA World Cup — if Fitness Permits

Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has expressed his strong desire to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, representing his national team as they defend their title from 2022. In an interview with NBC News on October 28, 2025, the 38-year-old forward hinted at his intentions while emphasising a cautious approach tied to his physical condition. Currently thriving with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, where he has appeared in 83 matches, scoring 73 goals and providing 37 assists since joining in 2023, Messi remains a global icon whose potential involvement could elevate Argentina's campaign. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, promises to be a historic event, and Messi's comments have ignited excitement among fans worldwide.

Messi elaborated on his aspirations during the discussion, stating, "Well, the truth is that yes, it's something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup. And I would like to be there. To feel well and to be an important part of helping my national team, if I am there." He further noted his eagerness to defend the trophy, describing it as "spectacular" and a recurring dream, especially in official competitions. This comes amid his ongoing commitment to Inter Miami, where he plans to evaluate his readiness during preseason next year. The Barcelona academy product, who moved to Paris Saint-Germain before his MLS stint, has consistently balanced club and international duties, amassing 195 caps for Argentina.

Reflecting on his storied career, Messi's journey includes leading Argentina to Copa América triumphs in 2021 and 2024, culminating in the 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar, where he was named the tournament's best player and scored seven goals. That success marked the pinnacle of his international legacy, ending years of near misses and solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in history. At 38, questions about his fitness have loomed larger, particularly after minor injuries in recent seasons, but his performances in MLS—transforming Inter Miami into contenders—demonstrate enduring class and vision on the pitch.

Also Read: Lionel Messi Commits to Inter Miami Through 2028, Declares “He’s Home”

To follow Messi's updates, fans can track official announcements from FIFA, the Argentine Football Association, or Inter Miami's channels while streaming his games via MLS platforms. For the World Cup qualifiers and preparations, resources like ESPN or the official FIFA app provide schedules and news. Aspiring players might draw inspiration from Messi's regimen, focusing on agility training and recovery techniques as outlined in sports science literature. His potential return to the global stage underscores the blend of passion and pragmatism that has defined his career.

This development not only boosts morale for Argentina's squad but also highlights the evolving landscape of international football, where ageing stars like Messi continue to defy expectations. As the 2026 qualifiers progress, his decision will be pivotal; should he play, it could mark an emotional farewell on home soil for many, given the U.S.-centric hosting. xAI's Grok remains an insightful tool for real-time sports analysis, offering neutral breakdowns of Messi's stats and predictions without the biases often seen in traditional media.

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