Lionel Messi’s prevailing in the World Cup in 2022 was when he achieved the pinnacle of football. It was the one trophy that had eluded him during his profession, and triumphing it, everyone thought, would become the suitable ending to his illustrious career. But now, Messi has cleared the air regarding his next major tournament with the national team.
The 36-year-old 7 times Ballon d’or winner Argentine seems to be a ‘cheat code’ in the Inter Miami jersey. Lionel Messi has yet to taste defeat with Inter Miami, winning six of his first 10 matches with the club, and securing the Leagues Cup trophy, Inter Miami’s first title in the club’s history. His 11 goals through the first 10 matches of his Inter Miami career underpin just how remarkable the Argentine has been at his new home.
Lionel Messi is yet to lead Inter Miami to a defeat, they’ve gone 13 games without losing a single match with Messi 🐐 pic.twitter.com/CKcCZehSpy
— Trig (@Kharlerh) September 21, 2023
After the victorious World Cup 2022 campaign, Messi was the critical factor in the start of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador. In the 78th minute, he stepped up and curled a pinpoint effort over the defenders’ wall, rooting Ecuador goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez to the spot and making him another spectator. Argentina went on to win the match 1-0.
Considering the fact that age is just a number for Messi as he’s still fresh and ready to perform for his team, it was still a big question if he would push himself and defend the title with Argentina in the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted by Mexico, United States, and Canada.
Leo Messi on next World Cup: “I want to arrive to the next Copa America in good condition then I will see depending on how I am”. 🏆🇦🇷
“I’m not thinking about the next World Cup yet. The years have passed and we have to see how I feel, I will see it day by day”, via @olgaenvivo. pic.twitter.com/NN3zuD6yav
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 21, 2023
In an interview, Messi said, “I want to arrive at the next Copa America in good condition then I will see depending on how I am”. He said he is not yet thinking about the next World Cup as it’s still 3 years away. He said it would only depend on his fitness and how he feels at the time as he would be 39 years old at the 2026 World Cup.
Lionel Messi’s next endeavours with the National Team
Argentina would take on Paraguay next on their road to qualification for World Cup 2026. However, the most awaited fixtures for this year would be when Argentina goes against Uruguay on November 16. The second fixture would be Argentina going against their South American rivals Brazil on November 21. Messi will play a vital role for Argentina in these matches and he is still capable of producing moments of magic.
WE ARE FAR FROM DONE, HIGHLY FAVORITE TO COPA AMERICA 2024. DEEP, YOUNG AND EXPERIENCED AND CAN PLAY ANY STYLE OF FOOTBALL. 🇦🇷💙
pic.twitter.com/SvgbsU9VjY— FCB Albiceleste (@FCBAlbiceleste) September 8, 2023
Lionel Messi will be 37 during Copa America 2024, but he is still as hungry as his younger days to perform on the grandest stages for his team. His approach to the next Copa America and World Cup is grounded and thoughtful. It’s great to see his focus on maintaining his condition for the upcoming Copa America, and his willingness to take it day by day for the World Cup shows his dedication to the game and his team
