Lionel Messi still hopes to play in the 2026 World Cup with the Argentine national team, even though he will be 39 years old by then.
"I hope to be there. I've said before that I really want to go. At least, if I'm not playing, I'll be watching live in the stadium. The World Cup is special for everyone, for every country, especially for us, because we experience it in a completely different way," Messi said.
In an interview with ESPN, Messi confirmed he will not be taking part in the upcoming Finalissima against Spain, which could potentially pit him against Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was a key figure in Argentina's 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar, completing the most prestigious trophy collection of his career.
Now 38 years old, Messi plays for Inter Miami, a 2025 MLS Cup finalist, in the United States. He acknowledged the physical challenges of MLS's return to action in the spring of 2026, following a long winter break.
However, Messi has not announced his retirement from the national team and continues to communicate intensively with coach Lionel Scaloni.
"We've talked about it many times. He (Scaloni) understands my situation very well, and we've discussed it many times. He's always said he wants me there, in whatever role. We have a great relationship of trust, so we can talk about anything," added the Albiceleste captain.
Messi's presence at the 2026 World Cup will be one of the most anticipated stories in world football.
