Football fans around the world have reason to celebrate! At 38 years old, Lionel Messi may still feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With just about seven months to go before the tournament kicks off in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Messi, who led the Argentina national football team to World Cup glory in Qatar, has not closed the door on another appearance on football’s biggest stage.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner revealed in an interview with NBC News that he hopes to play in the tournament, though the final decision will depend on his physical condition.
Messi said during the interview: “Being able to play in a World Cup is something truly special. I’d be honoured. If I have the chance to go, I hope to stay healthy and continue to be an important part of the team.”
“When I begin pre-season training with Inter Miami CF next year, I’ll evaluate my condition day by day to see whether I can maintain my fitness. I’ll make a decision then.”
“Of course, I have a huge desire to play in the World Cup. We’ve just won the last one, and the chance to defend the title would be incredible. Representing my country has always been my dream.”
Messi Signs Extension with Inter Miami
Despite being 38, Messi remains in exceptional form. This season, he has scored 29 goals and provided 16 assists in 28 regular-season matches, proving he is still at the top of his game.
Recently, he signed a contract extension with Inter Miami through 2028, a clear signal that retirement is not yet on his mind. For Argentina, he remains the undisputed leader, both on and off the pitch.
A Sixth World Cup Could Be Historic
If Messi does feature in the 2026 World Cup, it would mark his sixth appearance in the tournament, a record-breaking milestone in football history. Meanwhile, 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo has already confirmed his participation, raising hopes that fans will once again witness the iconic “GOAT rivalry” on the world stage.
Messi on Maradona: “He Will Always Be Our Legend”
When the NBC interviewer referred to Messi as “the greatest footballer of all time,” he smiled and humbly responded: “For us Argentines, Diego Maradona will always be the one and only. He is our eternal legend, the greatest player ever. What he represents goes far beyond football itself.”
“Even though he was close to retiring when I was a child, I knew that Diego was a man ahead of his time. His influence reached far beyond the pitch, it transcended borders.”
Respect for Other Sporting Legends
When asked about other sports, Messi said, “If we look beyond football, Michael Jordan achieved legendary status in basketball. He reached the same heights as the greatest in football.”
Messi added, “I also admire tennis players like Rafael Nadal. In my opinion, Nadal, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic have elevated the level of competition in tennis to heights never seen before.”
The Legend Lives On
At 38, Messi continues to display extraordinary skill and form. Regardless of whether he ultimately steps onto the 2026 World Cup stage, his legendary status in football is already cemented.
And if the two GOATs face off once more, it would undoubtedly be one of the most anticipated moments in football history. Fans around the globe will be watching and waiting.
