Messi's Current Situation: Between Glory and Longevity
Since his move to Inter Miami in July 2023, Messi has continued to shine, winning the Leagues Cup in his first season and remaining decisive despite his age. His physical condition seems to be holding up, thanks in part to a lighter playing schedule than in Europe. But the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is still two years away.
At almost 39, the challenge would be immense. Not only because of the physical demands of a major tournament, but also because of the intense pressure that a return to the national team would entail. Messi has already experienced this pressure for over 17 years with Argentina. And after finally lifting the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, one might wonder what would motivate him to go through it all again.
His Own Words: A Clear but Nuanced Message
In a recent interview, Messi was clear: "I won't be at the 2026 World Cup." However, he added an important nuance: "Today, I can't imagine it, but in two years, who knows?" This type of statement is typical of Messi, who never completely closes the door on anything. Especially since he has always said he would listen to his body and his motivation.
The thing is, after Qatar, Messi reached a level of personal fulfillment that he had never experienced before with the national team. He lifted the trophy, was named best player of the tournament, and finally silenced his critics. That changes everything. The weight he carried for so long has been lifted. So why would he want to take it back up again?
The Physical Challenge: Can Messi Still Compete at the Highest Level at 39?
This is perhaps the most critical aspect. Football is a sport where speed, explosiveness, and recovery play a crucial role. At 39, even for a player of Messi's caliber, these attributes inevitably decline. And a World Cup is not just a few matches: it's a month of competition with trips, pressure, and physical battles.
Take the example of other legends who tried to extend their careers at the international level. Zlatan Ibrahimovic attempted to play Euro 2020 at 39 but was limited by injuries. Cristiano Ronaldo, also 39, remains effective but is no longer the player who could dominate a match alone. Messi, for his part, has adapted his game: he plays less as a pure striker and more as a playmaker, which could theoretically help him prolong his career.
The Difference Between Club and International Football
It's important to note that playing for Argentina is not the same as playing for Inter Miami. The pace is higher, the intensity is greater, and the physical demands are increased. Moreover, in a World Cup, there are no longer seven substitutions as in MLS: only five, which limits rotation options. This means Messi would have to play full matches, sometimes every three or four days, in often extreme climatic conditions (Mexico and the southern United States in June-July can be torrid).
And that's exactly where the problem lies: even if Messi maintains excellent physical condition, the lack of preparation specific to the national team (he would join the squad only a few weeks before the competition) could be a determining factor. In 2026, Argentina will certainly not be among the favorites, which would add additional pressure.
Argentina Without Messi: A Generation in Transition
Another crucial aspect to consider: what will Argentina look like in 2026? The current squad, which won the Copa America in 2021 and the World Cup in 2022, is aging. Di María (35), Otamendi (35), and other leaders are also nearing the end of their careers. Lionel Scaloni, the Argentine coach, will have to rebuild a team around new leaders.
Young players like Enzo Fernández (22), Julián Álvarez (23), or Alejandro Garnacho (19) are promising, but they do not yet have the experience of a major tournament. The question then arises: would Messi's presence help this transition, or would it hinder the emergence of a new generation?
The Scaloni Factor: A Coach Who Knows How to Manage Messi
One of the keys to Messi's longevity with the national team is his relationship with Lionel Scaloni. The current coach has managed to create an environment where Messi feels good, both physically and mentally. He has relieved him of certain defensive tasks and allowed him to express himself freely. If Messi were to consider a return, much would depend on Scaloni's willingness to adapt his tactics again.
But Scaloni himself has not confirmed that he will stay until 2026. If there is a change of coach, the context could be very different. A new manager might want to build a team without Messi, to prepare for the future. And that would make a return even less likely.
Motivation and Legacy: What Would Drive Messi to Return?
After winning everything with Argentina, what would motivate Messi to play another World Cup? This is perhaps the most difficult question to answer. Some might say that the love of the game and the desire to compete at the highest level could be enough. But Messi has never been a player moved by personal records.
However, there is one factor that could tip the balance: the 2026 World Cup will be held in North America. Messi now lives in Miami, he is immensely popular in the United States, and he could see this as a unique opportunity to close the loop. Imagine Messi, almost 39, playing a World Cup in the country where he now plays club football. The symbolic aspect would be strong.
The Records Still Within Reach
Another element to consider: Messi is not far from certain all-time records with the national team. He could become the player with the most appearances or the top scorer in history for Argentina. These are not his priorities, but they could give him additional motivation. Especially if he realizes, in 2025 or early 2026, that he still has the physical level to compete.
Moreover, the 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, which could change the competition's dynamic. The group stages might be less demanding, and Argentina could qualify more easily. This would allow Messi to play without the immense pressure of absolute must-win matches from the start.
Comparison with Other Legends: Who Has Played a World Cup at 39?
History shows that very few players have participated in a World Cup at an advanced age. The most famous example is Roger Milla, who played for Cameroon in 1994 at 42 years old, but he was a substitute and played only a few minutes. More recently, Rafael Márquez played for Mexico in 2018 at 39, but he was also limited in his impact.
In Messi's case, we are talking about a player who would be a starter and a key figure for his team. This further reduces the chances. However, Messi is not a conventional player: he does not rely on his physical strength but on his intelligence, his vision of the game, and his technical mastery. These qualities can potentially be maintained longer.
The Exception That Confirms the Rule
If there is one player who could defy the odds, it is Messi. He has already done so many times in his career. Who would have bet, in 2021, that he would win a Copa America with Argentina? Or in 2022 that he would be the best player in the world at 35? His ability to adapt, to take care of his body, and to remain decisive despite the years makes him a unique case.
But even for Messi, there are limits. And the 2026 World Cup would represent a significant gamble, both for him and for the Argentine team. It is a bit like asking a marathon runner to run another marathon two years after his greatest victory: possible, but at what cost?
The Bottom Line: An Impossibility or a Last Magical Chapter?
After analyzing all the factors, my opinion is clear: it is very unlikely that Messi will play in the 2026 World Cup. The physical challenges, the lack of clear motivation, and the natural generational transition within the Argentine team point in that direction. Moreover, Messi himself has given strong indications that he wants to end his international career on a high note, after Qatar.
However, I remain convinced that if there is one player capable of defying expectations, it is him. If his physical condition is good, if Scaloni wants him, and if Messi feels that he can still bring something to the team, why not? Football has taught us that nothing is impossible, especially when it comes to Lionel Messi.
So, will Messi play in the 2026 World Cup? Honestly, I believe the most likely answer is no. But if he does, it will undoubtedly be one of the most beautiful and emotional stories in the history of football. And that is perhaps what makes this question so fascinating: the possibility, however small, that Messi offers us one last magic moment on the world's biggest stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Messi officially announced his retirement from the national team?
No, Messi has not made a formal announcement. However, he has stated several times that he does not plan to play in the 2026 World Cup, while leaving a slight opening to the possibility.
What age will Messi be during the 2026 World Cup?
Messi will be 39 years old during the 2026 World Cup, which will be held from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Who could replace Messi in the Argentine national team?
Young players like Enzo Fernández, Julián Álvarez, Alejandro Garnacho, and Thiago Almada are seen as potential future leaders of the Argentine team.
Has any player ever played a World Cup at 39 years old?
Yes, but it is rare. Rafael Márquez played for Mexico in 2018 at 39, and Roger Milla played for Cameroon in 1994 at 42, although in a limited role.
What would Messi need to do to be in shape for 2026?
Messi would need to maintain excellent physical condition, play regularly at a high level with Inter Miami, and follow a specific preparation program with the national team in the months leading up to the competition.