As Lionel Messi approaches what could be the final major year of his celebrated career, uncertainty clouds his participation in the 2026 World Cup. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner recently began the season with Inter Miami, but a 3-0 defeat to LAFC raised questions about his readiness to compete at the highest international level once again.
Messi’s contract with Inter Miami, extending through 2028, reflects his intent to play well into his late 30s and possibly beyond, much like his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo. Yet, despite his dominance in Major League Soccer, his potential role for Argentina in the next World Cup remains undecided.
Inter Miami Success Contrasted with National Team Concerns
Since joining the MLS, Messi has had a remarkable impact, leading Inter Miami to a championship and delivering a standout 2025 campaign that matched expectations for a player of his stature facing less intense competition. His technical skills continue to overwhelm many MLS defenders, reinforcing his status as a football icon.
However, after the World Cup in Qatar, in which Messi helped Argentina claim victory, the upcoming tournament represents his last opportunity to perform on football’s grandest stage. While his club form has been impressive, recent performances suggest the path to 2026 will be difficult.
In the season opener loss against Son Heung-Min’s LAFC, Messi looked less sharp, signaling potential struggles ahead. Compounding this are the retirements of close teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, and the diminished role of Luis Suarez within the national setup, affecting team dynamics.
Messi’s Readiness and Personal Reflections on Playing Internationally
Messi has expressed honest reservations about his participation with Argentina, committing only to join if he believes he can contribute meaningfully. Reflecting on his condition, he stated in October,
“I would like to be there. To feel well and to be an important part of helping my national team, if I am there,”
and further emphasized,
“I am going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start preseason next year with Inter [Miami] and see if I can really be 100%. I’m really eager because it’s the World Cup.”
These remarks underline the uncertain nature of his World Cup involvement, with physical fitness and personal form taking center stage in his decision-making process.
Argentina’s Evolving Squad Amid Messi’s Uncertainty
Argentina has shown resilience without Messi performing at his peak, having secured the recent Copa America title even when he was not at his best or injured during critical moments. This has sparked debate over the team’s ability to cope without its legendary captain.
Manager Lionel Scaloni has maintained cautious optimism about Messi’s future, sharing with reporters,
“He will decide, and we will support whatever he decides,”
adding,
“In principle, everything is going well, but six months is a long time. There is still time.”
This cautious stance reflects the delicate balance Argentina must maintain as the team awaits Messi’s final call while preparing for the challenges ahead.
Team Challenges and the Need for Messi’s Leadership
Concerns extend beyond Messi’s fitness to the form and fitness of Argentina’s key players as the World Cup approaches. Reports suggest that several important squad members are struggling to maintain peak performance. Alexis Mac Allister’s form has notably fallen since Liverpool’s recent title win, Lautaro Martinez recently suffered an injury setback, and Julián Álvarez has not scored from open play in a considerable time.
In addition, young talents such as Alejandro Garnacho have yet to meet expectations, while veteran Nicolás Otamendi, now 38, faces the challenge of maintaining form as Benfica trails in Portugal’s Primeira Liga title race. The absence of a clear successor to Ángel Di María adds to the selection dilemmas.
These factors elevate the possibility that Messi’s experience and leadership could prove vital for Argentina’s campaign, especially if he regains the elite level he displayed with Inter Miami last year.
Time Running Out for Messi’s World Cup Decision
With the tournament just four months away and Messi set to turn 39 during the competition, time is limited for him to confirm his participation. Although the idea of using him sparingly as a strategic option was once considered, current signs reveal a more complicated scenario, with his form and fitness still in question.
While one game does not define a player’s future, the opening loss to LAFC underscored the challenges ahead. Yet, if Messi can recapture the extraordinary performances from the recent MLS season, he would undeniably add immense value to Argentina on football’s largest stage.
The football world now watches closely as Messi navigates this critical period, balancing the desire to cap his international career with a final World Cup appearance against the physical and mental demands of elite competition.
