Since December 2022, Lionel Messi has truly achieved it all. After winning everything with FC Barcelona and PSG, the Argentine genius was on a quest for a World Cup title that eluded him. Following his Copa America triumph with Argentina the previous year, Messi finally secured that long-awaited World Cup in Qatar. Since then, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has entered a semi-retirement phase with Inter Miami, where he stands out among MLS players and enjoys life in Florida.
Ending the season as the league’s top scorer with 31 goals, Messi aims to lead his team towards an North American Championship in the coming weeks, with Inter Miami as the favorites on the East Coast. Meanwhile, the 38-year-old star is contemplating his future. His club situation is sorted; despite fan speculation about a return to Argentina or Europe, Messi extended his contract with Miami last week, committing until 2028. Now, the question arises about his international future.
Messi’s Participation in the Next World Cup is Uncertain
Having announced that he played his last match in Argentina last September, it seemed fitting for Messi to retire after the next World Cup. However, this scenario now appears less certain. In an interview with American media NBC, Messi cast doubt on his attendance at the upcoming World Cup: “In truth, it’s really extraordinary to be part of a World Cup. I would love to be there, to feel good and contribute actively to the national team, if I can. I will evaluate this day by day when I start pre-season next year with Inter and see if I can truly be at 100%.”
This unexpected twist may cool the excitement in Argentina, where Messi’s participation seemed assured for one final World Cup appearance. When pressed about his surprising remarks, the Barcelona legend reaffirmed his desire to be present next June if his body permits: “I’m really looking forward to it because it’s a World Cup. We just won the last World Cup, and being able to defend it on the pitch is spectacular, as it’s always a dream to play with the national team, especially in official competition. I hope that God allows me to do it again.” The answer will unfold in the coming months, even though it seems hard to imagine a World Cup without Lionel Messi.
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