Messi faces key questions ahead of 2026 World Cup

As Lionel Messi continues to dazzle on the field, two pressing questions seem to linger in the hearts and minds of his fans in Argentina: when will he retire, and will he lace up his boots for the 2026 World Cup? These inquiries have taken center stage, reflecting both admiration and concern for the legendary player.

In a heartfelt interview with Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Messi opened up about the intense speculation surrounding his future. “I don’t know if I will play in the 2026 World Cup,” he admitted candidly. 

“There are so many questions about this, especially back home in Argentina. I want to finish this year strong and start next season’s preseason well, something I didn’t get to do last year because of all the traveling.”

At 37, Messi is acutely aware of the passing time and the challenges that come with it. He emphasized the importance of taking things one day at a time, recognizing that football can be unpredictable. “We’re getting closer to the World Cup, but there’s still a lot of time left, and anything can happen,” he reflected thoughtfully.

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Messi has also adapted his playing style, acknowledging the changes that come with age. “I’m gradually adjusting to everything,” he said, highlighting his commitment to evolving as an athlete while continuing to perform at the highest level.

The upcoming 2026 World Cup, hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, looms large in his mind. 

With one year remaining on his contract with Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami, the stakes are high. Messi joined the club as a free agent last July, and while he celebrated leading them to their first trophy, the season has not been without its struggles. 

Miami finished 14th in the Eastern Conference and missed the playoffs, intensifying Messi’s desire to prove himself.

Despite the challenges, Messi’s resilience shines through. Inter Miami recently clinched the Supporters‍‍` Shield, and he finds himself among the finalists for the MLS MVP award. 

With 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 matches, Messi is driven by a renewed hunger for success. “If we want to elevate the club, we need to secure trophies. This past year has been tough, but we have made progress since I arrived,” he remarked, full of determination.

Looking forward, Messi and his teammates are eager to seize their playoff opportunities. They recently triumphed over Atlanta United with a 2-1 victory in their first match. 

The next challenge awaits them at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, where the pressure will be on. 

Messi emphasized the critical nature of this stage: “We can’t afford to make mistakes. In the playoffs, errors can lead to elimination, so we need to be stronger and take advantage of every opportunity.”

Since his arrival in Miami, Messi has also adapted his playing approach to fit the MLS, stating, “I’ve changed my style of play considering my age and situation. I’m gradually finding my rhythm in this new league, and I’ve felt comfortable from the very beginning.”

As Messi navigates this pivotal chapter in his career, the questions about his future are bound to resonate with fans, who eagerly await the next steps of their beloved hero on the global football stage. 

His journey is not just about accolades but also about growth, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of a champion.