Lionel Messi Addresses 2026 FIFA World Cup Future: 'I Don’t Want To Be A Burden'

Last Updated:November 11, 2025, 20:40 IST

Lionel Messi may play the 2026 FIFA World Cup for Argentina if he feels fit, emphasizing he will not continue just for sentiment and will decide based on his physical condition.

Lionel Messi. (X)

Lionel Messi has once again spoken candidly about his international future, admitting that while the temptation to play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains strong, he will only do so if he feels capable of helping Argentina on football’s grandest stage.

The Inter Miami superstar reiterated his desire to represent La Albiceleste in what would be his sixth World Cup but made it clear he won’t continue merely for sentiment.

“It’s a special World Cup, it’s special to play with the national team. Even more so in important competitions, and especially after having won it," Messi told reporters.

“But I don’t want to be, quote-unquote, a burden. I want to feel good physically, be sure that I can help and contribute things to the group, to the squad."

The 37-year-old reflected on how life in Major League Soccer has changed his preparation compared to his years in Europe, noting that the league’s unique calendar could impact his readiness for the tournament.

“Our season is different from Europe’s. We’ll have a preseason in between and only a few games before the World Cup, so I’ll see day by day if I feel good enough physically to play how I’d like to," Messi explained.

Despite his cautious tone, Messi didn’t hide his excitement about potentially playing again on the world stage.

“I’m aware that it’s a World Cup, and that it’s special. The World Cup is the biggest thing there is in football. So, yes, I’m excited, but taking it day by day."

A Legendary Legacy

Messi’s international career has already secured his place in history. With 193 caps and 112 goals, he stands as Argentina’s most-capped player and top scorer. As captain, he led his nation to Copa América glory in 2021, the Finalissima in 2022, and the crowning moment: the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

2026: A Step Too Far?

Messi, who will turn 39 before the next World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, also knows that it might be a bridge too far.

“As long as I can still play and feel good physically, I’ll continue doing things the same way: trying to compete, to win, to give my best," Messi said.

“The moment I feel I’m not physically able, that it’s hard for me on the pitch or that I’m no longer enjoying it, then that will be the moment to stop.

“But today I enjoy it, I feel good, and that’s where we are."

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...Read More

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...

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