As the world eagerly looks ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, one major question looms large: Will Lionel Messi, Argentina’s captain and one of the greatest footballers of all time, be part of the tournament? After leading Argentina to a thrilling World Cup victory in 2022, Messi’s participation in the next World Cup is now uncertain, as the legendary forward approaches a milestone in his career that many thought would never come.
Messi’s Triumph in 2022: A Legacy Cemented
Lionel Messi’s heroics in the 2022 FIFA World Cup are etched into football history. In Qatar, the Argentine maestro proved yet again that age is just a number. With seven goals and several assists, Messi played a pivotal role in guiding Argentina to their third World Cup title, cementing his place in the pantheon of football greatness.
The victory in 2022 was particularly special for Messi, who had been chasing the elusive World Cup trophy throughout his career. His performance was hailed as one of the best in tournament history, with his leadership, creativity, and determination inspiring a nation to glory. However, as the calendar turns towards the 2026 World Cup, Messi’s age and fitness raise questions about whether he will be able to extend his international career at the highest level.
Age and Fitness: Can Messi Keep Up for the 2026 World Cup?
Messi, who will be 38 years old during the 2026 World Cup, faces a challenge that no athlete can avoid: the passage of time. While he has defied the natural aging curve for years, continuing to play at an elite level, the physical demands of World Cup football are immense. As Messi approaches his late 30s, it is no longer guaranteed that he will be able to maintain the same level of performance that led Argentina to victory just a few years ago.
Fitness will be a key factor in Messi’s decision. While he has remained in excellent shape, his ability to perform at the top level on a global stage will depend on how his body holds up in the years leading to the 2026 tournament. The rigorous demands of international football, combined with potential injuries, may make it difficult for the aging star to play in what would likely be his final World Cup appearance.
Argentina’s Impressive Form Without Messi: A Strong Team Emerges
One surprising development in recent months is Argentina’s impressive performances without their talisman. In the World Cup qualifiers, the Argentina national team showcased their strength even in Messi’s absence. In one of the standout results, Argentina thrashed Brazil 4-1, a team that boasts the most World Cup titles in history. Additionally, they defeated Uruguay 1-0 in another qualifying match, proving that Argentina is more than capable of competing at the highest level even without Messi on the field.
These victories highlight a critical shift in Argentina’s team dynamics. The team, while undoubtedly benefiting from Messi’s brilliance over the years, is becoming more balanced and resilient, with other players stepping up in his absence. This raises an intriguing question: Can Argentina maintain their form without Messi, or is his presence still essential for their success?
Lionel Scaloni’s Calm and Pragmatic Approach
Amidst growing speculation, Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has taken a calm and pragmatic approach to the situation. Acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding Messi’s future, Scaloni stressed that the decision ultimately lies with the player himself. “There is still a lot of time before the 2026 World Cup,” Scaloni stated. “Right now, we should leave Messi alone. When the time comes, he will make the decision whether he wants to play or not. Our focus is on preparing the team for success, with or without him.”
Scaloni’s comments reflect a broader sense of optimism within the Argentina camp. The team’s success without Messi in key matches demonstrates that Argentina is not reliant on one player to achieve victory. Nevertheless, Messi’s unique ability to change the course of a game remains invaluable, and his leadership would be a crucial asset in the 2026 tournament if he decides to participate.
Messi’s Legacy: A Career Defined by Choices
Regardless of what Messi decides in the coming years, his legacy is already secure. His contributions to Argentina’s World Cup triumph in 2022 were nothing short of legendary, and his influence on the game will continue to inspire future generations. Messi’s brilliance on the field transcends individual records; it is the passion, determination, and joy he brings to the game that has made him an icon.
Should Messi choose to step onto the World Cup stage again in 2026, it would be a fitting finale to a career that has already seen countless highs. However, if he decides to hang up his boots internationally, fans will respect his decision, knowing that his contribution to the sport has been more than enough.
