“I’m excited for the World Cup, but I don’t want to be a burden.” – Lionel Messi

Inter Miami and Argentina captain Lionel Messi has opened up about the possibility of featuring at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying he remains enthusiastic about the tournament but will only participate if he feels fit enough to contribute meaningfully to the team.

According to Fabrizio Romano’s X post on Tuesday, Messi said:

“I’m excited for the World Cup. But I don’t want to be a burden. I want to feel good physically, be sure that I can help and contribute things to the group. I will see day to day if I really feel good physically to be like I would like to be able to participate.”

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who will turn 39 during the 2026 World Cup, famously captained Argentina to their long-awaited triumph at Qatar 2022 — a crowning achievement in his legendary career.

Since that victory, speculation has continued about whether Messi will extend his international journey long enough to defend the title in North America.

Despite moving to Major League Soccer in 2023, Messi has remained an active figure in Argentina’s World Cup qualifying campaign, consistently delivering strong performances that suggest he may have one more major tournament left in him.

For now, the Argentine icon says his focus is on maintaining his physical condition and helping both club and country whenever he feels ready. His final decision on playing in 2026, he emphasized, will depend on whether he can still perform at the high standards he sets for himself.

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