Football icon Lionel Messi has once again expressed uncertainty about featuring for Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a new interview with ESPN ahead of Friday’s World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., the 38-year-old Inter Miami captain admitted that he may not make the final squad as Argentina look to defend their title.
“I hope I can be there. I’ve said before that I’d love to be there,” Messi said, reiterating earlier comments that his participation will depend on his physical condition. “At worst, I’ll be there watching it live, but it will be special.”
Messi described the World Cup as an exceptional event, especially for Argentines: “The World Cup is special for everyone, for any country — especially for us, because we live it in a completely different way.”
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who will lead Inter Miami against the Vancouver Whitecaps in Saturday’s MLS Cup final, also acknowledged the growing pool of young Argentine talent vying for places in Lionel Scaloni’s squad.
“New players keep appearing; aside from the ones already there, new faces keep coming in,” he noted. “When a group is like this, it’s easier for newcomers to fit in.”
Messi has already featured in five World Cups, holding Argentina’s all-time records for appearances (196) and goals (115).
