Argentina talisman Lionel Messi has, on Thursday, provided an insight into his chances of featuring for his country at the 2026 World Cup.
Veteran attacker Messi, of course, finally added the one final piece of silverware to his burgeoning trophy cabinet late last year, in leading Argentina to glory at the Qatar World Cup.
The 35-year-old proved the tournament’s standout performer, notching a remarkable ten direct goal contributions, including a finale brace, to solidify his status as, in the eyes of the majority, the greatest to ever pull on a pair of boots.
Lionel Messi – World Cup 2022pic.twitter.com/hlDJ9pEnIq https://t.co/ik8vDdDKpZ
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) February 1, 2023
And yet, Messi appears far from done.
In the immediate aftermath of the World Cup, the Paris Saint-Germain standout signalled his intent to continue his international career through the year to come.
Speaking in an interview with Argentine outlet Ole on Thursday, it therefore came as little surprise when the subject of the next edition of world football’s grandest international tournament was put to Messi.
“I don’t know, I always said because of age it seems to me that it is very difficult. I love playing football, I love what I do and as long as I am well and feel in physical condition and continue to enjoy this, I will do it. But it seems difficult.
I’m telling you… I’m not ahead of anything. That’s what I repeat and I’m going to repeat. Because of age and time, I think it’s difficult. But it depends on how my career goes.”
🚨 Messi on World Cup 2026: “I don’t know, I always said because of age it seems to me that it is very difficult. I love playing football, I love what I do and as long as I am well and feel in physical condition and continue to enjoy this, I will do it. But it seems difficult.” pic.twitter.com/IHvcLHwN7U
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) February 2, 2023
