Lionel Messi, the venerable football maestro who has scripted countless tales of triumph on the pitch, is at the center of speculation as the 2026 World Cup looms on the horizon. An intriguing shift in Messi’s outlook suggests that he may entertain the idea of participating in this global spectacle, defying conventional expectations associated with the age of footballers.
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Messi’s Unprecedented Longevity
Messi’s journey in the footballing realm has been extraordinary, marked not only by his unparalleled skill but also by an unwavering determination to seek success. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Messi finds himself on the brink of turning 39, an age at which most footballers contemplate retirement. However, Messi, fueled by an insatiable thirst for victory and the overwhelming support of his Argentine compatriots, seems poised to extend his career beyond the customary boundaries of a footballer’s prime.
Copa America and Beyond
While the allure of the 2026 World Cup captures the imagination, Messi’s immediate focus is set on the forthcoming Copa America in the United States. Approaching his 37th birthday during the tournament, Messi stands resolute in his commitment to defend the title his team secured in 2021. The Copa America emerges as a pivotal stage for Messi, not just to showcase his individual brilliance but to assess the collective hunger and resilience of his team on the quest for continued glory.
Messi’s Flirtation with the 2026 World Cup
In a recent exclusive interview with ESPN Argentina, Messi provided a tantalizing glimpse into his thoughts on the 2026 World Cup. While the Argentine footballing community fervently aspires for Messi’s presence on the global stage, the football maestro remains pragmatic. He acknowledged that certain conditions must align for him to participate, with paramount importance given to his health and the team’s unrelenting ambition for more silverware.
The Essence of Competition
The interview on ESPN’s streaming channel, Star Plus, served as a platform for Messi to articulate his unwavering commitment to competition. He astutely recognized the personal and competitive challenges that lie ahead and asserted his determination to continue contributing at the highest level. The Copa America, therefore, becomes more than a tournament; it becomes a litmus test for Messi’s form and his team’s collective spirit.
The Unpredictable Future
Messi’s contemplation of the 2026 World Cup is grounded in a nuanced understanding of the sport’s realities. At 39, participating in such a global spectacle would be atypical, and Messi candidly shared his initial disbelief at the turn of events post the last World Cup. Contrary to his expectations of retirement, a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to savor newfound success have ignited Messi’s aspiration to be a part of future competitions.
Lionel Messi Wants to Live in the Moment
“I want to be here more than ever,” Messi declared, encapsulating the joy derived from overcoming years of adversity to relish the current moment. His sentiments echo a reluctance to dwell too far into the future, underscoring the importance of enjoying the present with the current team.
 “I will always try to compete to the fullest. I’m the first one who knows when I can and can’t compete. I’m also aware I left to a lesser competition but much of this is also personal and how you confront these competitive challenges. As long as I feel fit and I am able to contribute, I will keep coming. Right now, all I can think about is getting to the Copa America in great condition and play it.”
“Fight for the title again as we always did, and try to become champions again. Only time will tell if I make the World Cup or not. Normally, footballers don’t play World Cups at that age (39). That’s why I said I didn’t think I would make it.“
“It seemed I would retire after the last World Cup but the exact opposite happened. Now I want to be here more than ever. After suffering so many years, today we are enjoying a moment I had never lived before and I want to live it to the fullest. I feel great with this group and I want to enjoy without thinking two or three years ahead.”
“I don’t want to think about the World Cup but I also can’t say 100% that I won’t be there because anything can happen. Due to my age, the normal thing is for me to not make it. But we will see how far I can get. If we do well in Copa America and I can continue playing, maybe it happens. But I have to keep it real, it will be difficult.”
While acknowledging the inherent challenges of making it to the 2026 World Cup, Messi remains open to the unpredictability of football, acknowledging that anything can transpire.
As Lionel Messi navigates the upcoming Copa America, balancing the immediate challenges and the allure of the 2026 World Cup, football enthusiasts globally are left eagerly anticipating the next chapters in the illustrious career of this iconic player. Messi’s journey transcends mere athletic prowess; it embodies a profound passion for the sport that continues to captivate fans worldwide. Only time will unveil whether Messi’s dream of participating in the 2026 World Cup materializes, potentially etching another remarkable chapter in the storied legacy of one of football’s greatest luminaries.
