Will Messi Play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
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Synopsis
Lionel Messi's emotional farewell match for Argentina raises questions about his future in football. After a stunning 3-0 victory over Venezuela, Messi reflects on his illustrious career and contemplates his potential absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Will he say goodbye to international football?
Key Takeaways
- Messi's final match in Argentina was filled with emotion and nostalgia.
- He scored two goals in a decisive victory against Venezuela.
- Messi expressed uncertainty about his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- He has achieved remarkable milestones with Argentina throughout his career.
- Messi emphasizes the importance of his physical condition in making future decisions.
New Delhi, Sep 5 (NationPress) Following what was Lionel Messi’s last competitive appearance for Argentina in a 3-0 World Cup qualifying victory against Venezuela at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, the legendary player appeared deeply emotional and expressed doubts about participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Messi netted two goals in his final match on home soil and revealed that he had envisioned concluding his career in such a manner.
"We’ll see. There are countless emotions; I’ve experienced so much on this field. It’s always a delight to play in Argentina with our fans. We’ve shared so many enjoyable matches over the years. I’m overjoyed to finish in this way, just as I always dreamed of doing.
"For many years, I have cherished the support from Barcelona, and my aspiration was to replicate that here, in my homeland, alongside my people. A lot has been said over the years, but I prefer to focus on all the positive experiences. I’ll remember the good times with the group that tried their best, even if we didn’t achieve everything we set out to do.
"It was a beautiful journey. Today marked my final competitive game here,” Messi stated.
The captain of Argentina has donned the national jersey on 193 occasions, scoring a total of 112 goals. The Inter Miami player has led the Albiceleste to victory in the prestigious FIFA World Cup in 2026, along with two Copa America titles.
Messi mentioned that he hasn’t made a definitive choice regarding next year’s World Cup, but logically, considering his age, he doubts he will participate.
"As I previously stated, I don’t believe I will play again in the World Cup. At my age, the most sensible assumption is that I won’t be there. However, we are nearing the event, and I am enthusiastic and motivated to play. As I always say, I take it one day at a time, based on how I feel.
"I’m striving to feel good and, above all, to be honest with myself. When I feel well, I enjoy it; but if I don’t, I prefer not to be on the field. So we’ll see. I haven’t made any decisions about the World Cup.
"I’ll conclude the season, then have a preseason, and there will be six months left. So, we’ll see how I feel. I hope to have a successful preseason in 2026 and finish this MLS season strong, then I’ll make my decision,” he added.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize Messi's monumental impact on football and his emotional connection with fans. His reflections echo the sentiment of a generation, balancing the joy of past achievements with the reality of time. Whether or not he participates in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, his legacy will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of millions.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Messi say about the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Messi expressed doubts about playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that due to his age, he believes it's logical that he might not participate.
How many goals has Messi scored for Argentina?
Lionel Messi has scored a total of 112 goals for the Argentina national team.
What was Messi's final competitive match?
Messi's final competitive match was a 3-0 victory against Venezuela in World Cup qualifying.
What are Messi's achievements with the national team?
Messi has led Argentina to a FIFA World Cup victory in 2026 and has won two Copa America titles.
What does Messi plan to do before deciding on the World Cup?
Messi plans to finish the current season, undergo preseason training, and evaluate how he feels in the months leading up to the World Cup.
