However, Argentina’s head coach believes it’s still too early for an official announcement about the superstar’s participation in the next World Cup.
With about a year and a half remaining, a lot can change. The first priority is securing a spot in the tournament, then evaluating fitness before making any final decisions. According to Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni, that moment hasn’t arrived yet. However, he did reveal that Lionel Messi is interested in playing in the 2026 World Cup once again.
Argentina is on the right track to securing qualification, currently leading the CONMEBOL standings. As a result, the chances of seeing Messi at the 2026 World Cup are gradually increasing. But there’s still a long way to go.
At 37, injuries have started to take their toll. Yet, whenever he steps on the field, Messi continues to showcase his brilliance. Since leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar 2022, speculation has been constant about his future in football.
Messi, along with his teammates and coaches, frequently faces questions about his plans. So far, they’ve kept fans hopeful. Speaking to DSports on Thursday, Scaloni confirmed that Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, wants to be part of the next World Cup squad.
“The first thing to say is that he (Messi) and his teammates all know that the World Cup is still far away. But he and the rest of the team are eager to play in it.”
“We have to wait and see how things unfold. He (Messi) knows what we think, and he is the smartest among all of us.”
Messi has already achieved almost everything in football. His illustrious career boasts a record 46 trophies, including the last World Cup, two consecutive Copa America titles, and countless club honors. Most recently, he added another trophy to his collection—the Supporters’ Shield with Inter Miami, marking a significant achievement for the MLS club.
