The Inter Miami star admitted he struggles to enjoy playing when he doesn’t feel physically at his best
Scored twice in 3-0 win over VenezuelaArgentina remain leaders of the qualifiersDid not confirm whether he’ll play at the 2026 World CupGet the MLS Season Pass today!Stream games nowGetty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED?
Lionel Messi has cast doubt over his participation in the 2026 World Cup, set to be staged across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Following Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Venezuela in Buenos Aires – his last qualifying match on home soil – e captain avoided giving a clear answer on whether he will defend the crown he lifted in Qatar 2022.
“As I’ve said before, I don’t think I’ll play another World Cup… At my age, it’s only logical to think I might not,” Messi told after the match.
Messi acknowledged his participation in the 2026 World Cup will come down to his fitness.
“Day by day, I try to feel good and, above all, be honest with myself. When I feel good, I enjoy it. But when I don’t, honestly, I don’t enjoy it – and if that’s the case, I’d rather not be there. So we’ll see," he explained. "I haven’t made a decision yet about the World Cup. Match by match, I’ll finish the season, then have preseason, and in six months, I’ll see how I feel. Hopefully I can finish this MLS season strong, have a good preseason in 2026, and then make a decision.”
Messi also reflected on the emotional farewell he experienced in Buenos Aires:
“To be able to finish this way here is what I always dreamed of – finishing with my people. For many years, I had Barcelona’s affection, and my dream was to have it here in my country as well," he said. "A lot was said over the years, but I’ll keep the good moments we built with a group that tried but couldn’t win it all, until it finally happened for me and a few from my generation. Everything we lived through was beautiful.”
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Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez admitted there were plenty of emotions on the pitch on Thursday.
“It was an emotional night, one to remember, a night that will stay with us forever because of who Leo is – not just as a player, but as a person, as a leader, and for the lessons he gives us every day,” he said.
Getty Images SportDID YOU KNOW?
With his brace, Messi extended his record tally to 114 goals for Argentina.
AFPWHAT NEXT FOR ARGENTINA NATIONAL TEAM?
, who remain leaders in the South American qualifiers with 38 points, will close out their campaign on Tuesday with an away trip to Ecuador.
