Lionel Messi has once again thrown his future into doubt, admitting he might not be at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Argentina legend struck twice in a 3-0 win over Venezuela on Friday night, but his post-match comments left fans fearing they could have seen him play on home soil for the final time.
Speaking after the game, Messi said his decision will come down to how he feels physically over the next year.
“Same as I said before about the World Cup, I don’t think I’ll play another. Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it. But we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated. Like I always say, I go day by day.”
The 37-year-old has been enjoying life in the United States with Inter Miami, but knows the demands of another major tournament could be too much.
“I’m trying to feel good and, above all, be honest with myself. When I feel good, I enjoy it. When I don’t, I don’t have a good time, and I prefer not to be there. I’ll finish this season, then have preseason, and decide. Hopefully I’ll be in a good place, but I haven’t made my mind up yet.”
Final bow in Argentina?
Friday’s match had an emotional edge, with Messi openly acknowledging the special connection he has with fans back home.
“There are so many emotions. It’s always a joy to play in Argentina with our people. I’ve experienced incredible things here. To finish in this way, if it is the last time, is a dream.”
For years, Messi’s critics said he never delivered for Argentina. That all changed in Qatar 2022, where he finally lifted the World Cup. Now, just three years on, the question is whether he has one last dance left in him for 2026 – or whether the win in Qatar will go down as his grand finale.
Whatever happens, Messi’s legacy is secure. But for football fans, the thought of a World Cup without him feels almost impossible.
