Lionel Messi’s Argentina National Team became world champions in Qatar after a nail-biting penalty shootout against France, and ahead of the next edition of the competition, the Albiceleste captain has not confirmed his participation.
However, a former Argentine midfielder believes Leo could make his sixth appearance in the tournament and explained why.
Messi could play in the 2026 World Cup
The tournament, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada next year, will be special for Lionel Scaloni’s team as they defend their title and fight to keep it for another four years. However, the 38-year-old captain has cast doubt on his participation.
Recently, in a conversation with Pablo González of ESPN, the number 10 reiterated that his decision will depend on how he feels in June/July and said: “I hope I can be there. I’ve already said that I would love to be there… At the very least, I’ll be there watching it live, but it’s going to be special, especially for us who experience it differently than anyone else.”
Despite Leo’s statements, former Argentine soccer player Ariel Ortega believes that the Inter Miami icon will compete in this new edition of the World Cup, as his level remains high and he will contribute to the Albiceleste:
“Given how much Messi loves playing soccer, he’s going to be there,” said ‘Burrito’ without hesitation to Bolavip. “Besides, personally, I see him as better than ever. He’s at an incredibly high level, regardless of what people say about the league he plays in. I think playing at that level isn’t easy, and he’s going to be at the World Cup.”
Furthermore, Ortega knows what it means to play in this competition, having participated in three World Cups in 1994, 1998, and 2002 with the blue and white. In addition, Messi has just won his 48th trophy in his career after becoming MLS Cup champion with Inter Miami last Saturday, where he made two key assists in the grand final. For this reason, knowing Leo’s competitive spirit and highlighting his lack of injuries, Ariel emphasized:
“It’s going to be a personal thing for him; he’s going to want to play every game. The World Cup is different,” he said, adding: “He hasn’t had any serious injuries in his career and he looks to be in good physical shape. He’s going to prepare well to be there without any problems.”
Meanwhile, after the draw held on December 5 at the John F. Kennedy Center, it was revealed that Argentina will be in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. The 2026 World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19. Will Leo be there?
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