Lionel Messi played his final home World Cup qualifier for Argentina on Thursday and dazzled the 85,000+ fans in Buenos Aires with a brace during the 3-0 victory vs. Venezuela. The 38-year-old then caught the attention of fans online with his comments after the game.
When asked about the likelihood of him playing in next summer’s 2026 World Cup and defending Argentina’s world title, Messi said it’s not likely.
Will Messi play in 2026 World Cup?
According to Messi nothing is official and his age indicates that he likely won’t appear in the tournament.
️ Leo Messi: "I haven't made a decision about the next World Cup."
"Given my age, it's logical that I won't make it to the next World Cup. But we'll take it day by day, match by match." pic.twitter.com/HcurlaKLCG— The Touchline | (@TouchlineX) September 5, 2025
Leo Messi: "Same as I said before about the World Cup that I don’t think I’ll play another...Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it. But well, we’re almost there so I’m excited and motivated to play it. Like I always say, I go day by day, match by… pic.twitter.com/eNO0I0TBLi
— All About Argentina (@AlbicelesteTalk) September 5, 2025
“When I feel good, I enjoy it. But when I don’t, honestly, I don’t have a good time,” Messi said. “So I prefer not to be there if I don't feel good. So, we’ll see. I haven’t made a decision about the World Cup.
"Match by match, I’ll finish the season, then I’ll have preseason, and there will be six months left. So, we’ll see how I feel. Hopefully I’ll have a good preseason in 2026, and finish this MLS season well, and then I'll decide."
It seems that Messi’s health will be the deciding factor on his inclusion in Argentina’s World Cup squad.
Injuries have become a recurring issue for Messi during his time with Inter Miami. He’s missed eight games for his club this season due to various injuries and muscular issues. He was out of the squad for 14 fixtures last season due to injuries.
While Messi’s health and fitness seem to be up for debate, his contributions for Argentina haven’t dropped off AT ALL. He still looks like the same superstar that carried his nation to glory in Qatar three years ago.
Messi has recorded 11 goal contributions (eight goals, three assists) in 12 appearances for Argentina during 2026 World Cup qualifying.
We're not big gamblers, however we'd say it's safe to say it would be a shock to not see Messi playing for Argentina in the World Cup next summer.
