Lionel Messi’s presence at the 2026 World Cup is not yet fully confirmed, and it appears fans will have to wait for an official announcement. However, recent comments from his national team coach, Javier Mascherano, have reignited excitement across the football world.
Following Inter Miami’s preseason match in Colombia during its South America tour, Mascherano addressed the question everyone is asking-and his response quickly made headlines.
Will Messi play in the 2026 World Cup?
Mascherano didn’t hesitate when asked about Messi and the upcoming tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
“Yes, why not?” he replied, a blunt answer that immediately fueled hope among fans eager to see the Argentine legend defend the title.
“I like to stay close to the players and, above all, understand how they feel. No one knows better than them how their body is responding,” Mascherano explained, referencing the demanding calendar and the importance of managing physical load throughout the season.
He also expressed confidence in the national team’s future: “Argentina is going to approach the World Cup in the best possible way. They’ve been competing at a very high level for a long time and have extraordinary players.”
While many believe Messi will ultimately be part of Lionel Scaloni’s final squad, there is still no official confirmation, and the mystery may persist until just weeks before the tournament begins.
If Messi does take part, he would make history-joining Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa (if selected by Mexico) as the only players ever to appear in six World Cups.
With 26 World Cup matches already played, Messi currently stands as the player with the most appearances in the tournament’s history-another remarkable milestone in a career that may not be finished just yet.
Read the full article here
