### Messi's Uncertain Future: A World Cup Legend's Dilemma Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine footballer, has left fans in suspense regarding his participation in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. As he approaches his 39th birthday during the tournament, Messi has expressed a strong desire to play but has not confirmed his involvement. He emphasized the importance of the World Cup for Argentina and acknowledged the depth of talent in the current squad, which is being shaped by coach Lionel Scaloni. Messi's comments have sparked discussions about his potential sixth World Cup appearance, with the tournament set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. ### Key Points on Messi's World Cup Participation 1. **Desire to Play**: Messi has openly stated that he hopes to be part of the Argentina squad for the 2026 World Cup, expressing his love for the tournament and its significance for his country [https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/lionel-messi-sends-argentina-world-36355335]. 2. **Non-Committal Stance**: Despite his enthusiasm, Messi has refrained from making a definitive commitment, suggesting that if he is unable to play, he will still support the team as a spectator [https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/football/lionel-messi-drops-bombshell-refuses-to-confirm-fifa-world-cup-2026-return-at-worst-ill-be-watching-live-article-153248528]. 3. **Coach's Support**: Messi revealed that coach Lionel Scaloni has expressed a desire for him to be part of the squad, indicating that discussions about his potential role have taken place [https://www.firstpost.com/sports/football-news/lionel-messi-fifa-world-cup-2026-interview-scaloni-13956978.html]. 4. **Team Dynamics**: He acknowledged the emergence of younger talent in the Argentine team, which may complicate his selection, as Scaloni will have tough decisions to make regarding the final squad [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/lionel_messi_on_26_world_cup_i_hope_i_can_be_there/s1_17184_43159058]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Age Factor**: Messi will be 39 during the tournament, raising questions about his physical readiness to compete at the highest level [https://www.themirror.com/sport/soccer/lionel-messi-world-cup-expectations-1545957]. - **Current Form**: Messi's performance in the MLS and his leadership role in Inter Miami may influence his fitness and readiness for the World Cup [https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/lionel-messi-on-playing-fifa-world-cup-2026-argentina-inter-miami-mls-cup-final/article70359106.ece]. - **Historical Context**: If he participates, it would mark Messi's sixth World Cup appearance, a significant milestone for any player [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/will-lionel-messi-play-in-2026-fifa-world-cup-legend-teases-at-sixth-appearance/articleshow/125781950.cms]. ### Conclusion: Messi's World Cup Aspirations In summary, **Lionel Messi's future in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains uncertain**, but his passion for the tournament and commitment to Argentina are clear. 1. **Desire to Compete**: Messi hopes to play, emphasizing the World Cup's importance for Argentina. 2. **Non-Committal**: He has not confirmed his participation, suggesting he may watch if unable to play. 3. **Support from Coach**: Scaloni's interest in having Messi on the team adds a layer of complexity to the decision. 4. **Emerging Talent**: The depth of the current squad may impact his selection. As the tournament approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Messi can defy age and continue to shine on the world stage [https://khelnow.com/football/world-football-lionel-messi-worrying-update-2026-fifa-world-cup-202512].