Messi’s World Cup Aspirations: A Blend of Excitement and Caution

Lionel Messi has played a pivotal role in securing Argentina’s qualification for the World Cup set to take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. He netted eight goals, propelling Lionel Scaloni’s squad to the top of the South American qualifying standings.

Despite his significant contributions, the 38-year-old has frequently expressed uncertainty regarding his participation in FIFA’s premier tournament next June, where Argentina aims to defend the title they clinched against France in a penalty shootout during the 2022 final in Qatar.

In a November interview with the Spanish publication SPORT, Messi reflected on whether the prospect of competing at the World Cup was “very exciting.” He responded affirmatively, stating, “Yes, obviously it is. It’s a special World Cup. It’s special to play with the national team, especially in major official competitions, and even more so considering what a World Cup means, especially after having won it.”

However, he emphasized his desire not to be a burden, saying, “I want to feel physically fit, to be sure I can help and contribute to the team. Our season at MLS side Inter Miami is different from the European one. We’ll have a pre-season in between, with few matches leading up to the World Cup, and we’ll see how things go day by day to determine if I truly feel fit enough to participate.”

Messi is acutely aware of the significance of the World Cup and remains excited, but he is taking a cautious approach, focusing on his physical readiness.

Spain’s head coach, De La Fuente, has since urged Messi to compete in the World Cup. Spain is recognized as one of the favorites for the upcoming tournament, alongside Argentina. De La Fuente believes Messi, despite his age, can still be a game-changer for Argentina on football’s grandest stage.

In December, Messi showcased his capabilities by providing two assists in Inter Miami’s historic MLS Cup victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps. De La Fuente commented to the Spanish publication AS, “Messi is one of those players who should never retire, just like Cristiano Ronaldo. They are fantastic. Whatever Messi’s form is in the Finalissima or the World Cup, he can make a difference with a single detail. Total respect and admiration for Leo’s career and what he still has ahead of him.”

Former Argentina captain Javier Zanetti also expressed support for Messi’s potential participation in the World Cup, noting that the La Albiceleste have been drawn into Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. He remarked, “That has to be his decision, but I think he will compete. There are only a few months to go, and I believe he also wants to represent his country again. I have no doubt it will happen.”

Zanetti dismissed concerns regarding Messi’s age, as he approaches 39 on June 24, just days before the World Cup begins. He stated, “I don’t agree with the notion that Messi will be too old to perform. He is fully capable of continuing as a leader. He’s intelligent and knows how to interpret what the team needs, surrounded by great players in the national team. I’m convinced that with him, Argentina will be a major contender again.”

When asked if Messi could represent Argentina beyond 2026, Zanetti said, “I don’t know if that can be seen in the short term, but I think the time has come for Messi to enjoy football. The most important thing now is that he enjoys what he does. The World Cup will surely be an important testing ground to see how he feels, and then he’ll decide calmly whether to continue.”