### Messi's Potential 2026 World Cup Comeback: A Dream Amidst Doubts Lionel Messi, the Argentine football legend, has expressed a strong desire to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite concerns regarding his age and fitness. As he approaches his 39th birthday, Messi's commitment to the national team remains unwavering, especially after leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup. His recent contract extension with Inter Miami until 2028 indicates that he is not yet ready to retire from professional football. However, he acknowledges that his physical condition will ultimately dictate his ability to compete at the highest level once again. ### Structure of Messi's 2026 World Cup Aspirations 1. **Desire to Compete**: Messi has openly stated his eagerness to defend Argentina's title at the upcoming World Cup, emphasizing the significance of the tournament and his dream to play for his country again [https://www.rediff.com/sports/report/messi-to-assess-fitness-as-he-targets-2026-wc/20251028.htm]. 2. **Fitness Considerations**: The 38-year-old has made it clear that his participation hinges on his physical health, stating, "My body will decide if I play" [https://thewhistler.ng/my-body-will-decide-if-i-play-2026-wcup-says-messi]. He plans to assess his fitness closer to the tournament. 3. **Contractual Commitment**: Messi's recent contract extension with Inter Miami until 2028 suggests he is still invested in his career and not contemplating retirement just yet [https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/sports/2025/10/28/messi-eyes-2026-world-cup-despite-age-and-fitness-concerns]. 4. **Public Sentiment**: Fans and analysts alike are hopeful to see Messi lead Argentina one last time on the grand stage, reflecting the high expectations surrounding his potential participation [https://khelnow.com/football/world-football-lionel-messi-would-love-feature-2026-world-cup-202510]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Age and Experience**: Messi will be 39 during the World Cup, which raises questions about his physical capabilities. However, he has maintained a high level of performance throughout his career, making him a valuable asset to the team [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/messi-eyes-2026-world-cup-despite-age-and-fitness-concerns-5428676]. - **Contractual Timeline**: His contract with Inter Miami runs until 2028, indicating a commitment to continue playing at a professional level, which may influence his decision regarding the World Cup [https://www.tbsnews.net/sports/lionel-messi-aims-world-cup-2026-despite-age-fitness-considerations-1271101]. - **Historical Performance**: Messi has made 195 appearances for the Argentina national team, scoring 114 goals, showcasing his significant contributions to the team over the years [https://www.sportstiger.com/football/lionel-messi-to-play-2026-fifa-world-cup-legend-drops-big-hint]. ### Conclusion: Messi's Future in Football In summary, **Lionel Messi's aspirations for the 2026 World Cup are fueled by a deep desire to defend Argentina's title, yet tempered by the realities of age and fitness**. His decision will ultimately depend on his physical condition as the tournament approaches. 1. Messi is eager to play and defend Argentina's title [https://www.rediff.com/sports/report/messi-to-assess-fitness-as-he-targets-2026-wc/20251028.htm]. 2. His fitness will be a critical factor in his decision [https://thewhistler.ng/my-body-will-decide-if-i-play-2026-wcup-says-messi]. 3. His contract extension with Inter Miami indicates he is not ready to retire [https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/sports/2025/10/28/messi-eyes-2026-world-cup-despite-age-and-fitness-concerns]. 4. Fans are hopeful for his participation, reflecting the high expectations surrounding his potential return [https://khelnow.com/football/world-football-lionel-messi-would-love-feature-2026-world-cup-202510]. As the World Cup draws nearer, all eyes will be on Messi to see if he can once again grace the pitch on football's biggest stage.