Lionel Messi has once again raised uncertainty about his chances of featuring for Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a new interview with ESPN ahead of Friday’s World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., the 38-year-old Inter Miami star suggested that he might not make the final squad as Argentina prepares to defend their title.
“I hope I can be there. I’ve said before that I’d love to be there,” Messi said, noting that his participation will depend heavily on his physical condition.
“At worst, I’ll be there watching it live, but it will be special,” he added. “The World Cup is special for everyone — especially for us, because we live it in a completely different way.”
Messi, who is preparing to lead Inter Miami in Saturday’s MLS Cup final against the Vancouver Whitecaps, acknowledged that Argentina now has a large pool of young, emerging talent, making national team selection even more competitive.
“New players keep appearing; aside from the ones already there, new faces keep coming in,” he said. “When a group is like this, it’s easier for newcomers to fit in.”
Messi has already featured in five World Cups and holds Argentina’s all-time records for appearances (196) and goals (115).
