Published: 10:18 EDT, 7 June 2024
Lionel Messi is uncertain about his prospects of participating in the 2026 World Cup, acknowledging that “age is a reality.” The football icon, who celebrated his 37th birthday this year, confessed that he is unsure if he will be in suitable physical condition to compete at the highest level in two years.
Messi, who currently plies his trade with Inter Miami, achieved a lifelong ambition when he captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022. However, with the next World Cup taking place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and with Messi turning 39 during the tournament, he is pragmatic about his chances of making an appearance.
The Argentine captain, who has netted 14 times in 15 appearances for Inter Miami this season, remains focused on the upcoming Copa America, where Argentina will defend their title. However, beyond that, Messi’s international future is uncertain.
Messi led Argentina to World Cup triumph in Qatar in 2022
“It depends on how I feel, how I am physically, and being realistic with myself,” Messi said when asked about his chances of playing in the 2026 World Cup. “I need to know if I am up to the task of competing and helping my teammates.”
He continued, “There’s still some time left, and I don’t know how I’m going to be at that moment. Age is a reality, although it’s just a number. The number of games I will play is not the same as when I was in Europe, competing every three days in various tournaments.”
Despite his advancing years, Messi continues to excel on the pitch. Just last weekend, he became the fastest player to reach 25 goal contributions in a season, accomplishing this feat in just 12 games. Nonetheless, he remains cautious about his future, stating, “It depends on how I feel and how I perform when I’m with my teammates. Only then will I know if I’m still up to the task.”
For now, Messi’s attention turns to the upcoming Copa America, where Argentina will face Canada, Chile, and Peru in the group stage. The tournament kicks off on June 20.