(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Lionel Messi Hints 2026 FIFA World Cup May Come Too Late for Him
Lionel Messi has once again raised doubts about his international future, suggesting that the 2026 FIFA World Cup might be out of reach despite Argentina’s early qualification for the tournament.
The comments came after Messi scored twice in Argentina’s 3–0 victory over Venezuela, a match many believe could be his last on home soil. His remarks have reignited debate about whether the world will see him on football’s biggest stage one more time.
At 38, Messi continues to battle the realities of age and recurring injuries. His stop-start season at Inter Miami has sparked fresh questions about how much more his body can endure at the highest level.
Speaking after the win at the Monumental Stadium, Messi admitted:
“In the past, I said it was unlikely I’d play a World Cup at 39. It’s nine months away, which is close, but it feels long as well. I love this game, I never want it to end, but I know the moment is coming. It will happen when it has to happen.”
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has already chosen to rest Messi for their final qualifier against Ecuador, signaling the management’s intent to preserve their captain’s fitness.
The uncertainty comes just three years after Messi delivered Argentina’s long-awaited triumph at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, a victory that placed him alongside Diego Maradona in football folklore.
Messi’s international career already includes two Copa América titles, an Olympic gold medal, a Finalissima trophy, and the record as Argentina’s most-capped player. He is also the second-highest scorer in international football history.
Yet, the possibility of a 2026 return adds extra intrigue. Messi is just three goals behind Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record of 16. If he plays, he could rewrite history once again.
For now, with Argentina already qualified for the expanded 48-team World Cup in North America, fans around the globe wait anxiously. Whether Messi bows out before 2026 or graces football’s grandest stage one last time, his farewell will mark the end of an era for both Argentina and the sport itself.
