Lionel Messi's Argentina future hangs in the balance ahead of 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi in the Argentina dugout after his Copa America final withdrawal (Credit: Imago)

Lionel Messi's Argentina future hangs in the balance ahead of 2026 World Cup

Stephen Awino 11:00 - 19.04.2025

Lionel Messi remains undecided about possibly featuring for the World Cup holders at the 2026 showpiece.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi still remains undecided about featuring for the side at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The holders are on course to feature in the global showpiece to be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Currently topping South America's World Cup Qualifiers standings, Argentina are expected to mount a title defence, having won the prestigious tournament in 2022.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

Why Lionel Could Miss the 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi cemented his status as the greatest of all time in the 21st century when he won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina. || Imago

The Inter Miami star is in the twilight of his prolific career, and injuries seem to be slowing him down.

The former Barcelona forward most recently missed Argentina's 2026 World Cup Qualifiers fixtures during the March international break.

Messi has recently opened up about his future with Argentina and the possibility of featuring at next year’s global showpiece.

“The truth is that when you start thinking about it, it’s a long time away but at the same time it’s going to pass quickly,” Messi said, as quoted by Sky Sports.

“For me, this year is going to be important [for the World Cup], to be able to play with continuity, to feel good,” he added.

“It’s a long season. It’s started now and runs through to December without a break in June. On top of that, we have the Club World Cup in June as well—another competition. There are lots of games.”

The Argentine continued to highlight last year’s missed pre-season as a telling sign.

“I think about it and wait and see, but I don’t want to set that goal either,” he added.

“I’ll take it day by day and see how I feel physically above all else, and be honest with myself too.”

Lionel Messi's Campaign with Inter Miami and Argentina

Lionel Messi
Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi | Imago

The MLS star is just seven games into his Inter Miami campaign.

The David Beckham-owned team currently sits fourth with 15 points on the log, trailing leaders Columbus but with a game in hand.

With many more matches still to come, as well as the remainder of Argentina’s Qualifiers, the volume of fixtures is poised to determine the World Cup winner’s future with the defending champions.

Tags: