Lionel Messi was hesitant on whether he will play for Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
When the final whistle blew in Qatar, Lionel Messi fell to his knees in a state of catharsis. It took a penalty shootout against France, but he had finally led Argentina to a FIFA World Cup title, one of the few trophies he’d not won through his career.
and will have a chance to defend their title in North America, they might have to do so without Messi. TheAfter winning in Qatar, Messi said the tournament would be his last World Cup. However, after thriving with Inter Miami and helping Argentina win the 2024 Copa América, many expected him to be on Argentina’s squad for 2026.JOIN SI SOCCER'S INTER MIAMI WHATSAPP COMMUNITY - GET ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND ANALYSIS STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE “The truth is that when you start thinking about it, it’s a long time away but at the same time it’s going to pass quickly, no?,” Messi told“For me this year is going to be important, to be able to play with continuity, to feel good. Last year I joined up for preseason and started a couple of games, then had to miss a few games through injuries or not feeling 100%. This time preseason has been good, I’ve started well and I feel good.”, where they punched their ticket to the 2026 tournament. Yet, he’s had a standout season with Inter Miami, recording three goals and two assists in six MLS matches while also helping them to the “It’s a long season. It’s started now and runs through December without a break in June. On top of that, we have the Club World Cup in June as well, another competition. There are lots of games,” he added. “I think about it and wait and see, but I don’t want to set that goal either. I’ll take it day by day and see how I feel physically above all else, and be honest with myself too.” Messi has scored 112 goals in 191 appearances for Argentina and is still able to play at a level that would benefit the Argentina squad, a team he’d have a place on for as long as he wants.and added, “No, no, no, I don't ask him either ... I know what he is like and I don't ask him anything regarding that. Time will tell."Ben Steiner is an American-Canadian journalist who brings in-depth experience, having covered the North American national teams, MLS, CPL, NWSL, NSL and Liga MX for prominent outlets, including MLSsoccer.com, CBC Sports, and OneSoccer.
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