New Delhi: With the 2026 FIFA World Cup drawing closer, questions about Lionel Messi’s future continue to dominate headlines. The football world has been eager to know whether the Argentine legend will take the field in what could be his final international tournament. While former teammates and coaches have hinted at a possible appearance and now Messi himself has finally shared his thoughts on the matter.
In a recent interview with Simplemente Futbol, Messi admitted that the current year will play a crucial role in shaping his decision. “Obviously I’m thinking about the World Cup and being able to be there, but I’m living day by day,” he said. The 37-year-old stressed the importance of being honest with himself before making any commitment to Argentina’s World Cup campaign.
🚨 Leo Messi: “This year will be key to see what I decide regarding the 2026 World Cup”.
“I would lie if I told you I’m not thinking about that…”, told Simplemente Futbol. pic.twitter.com/cQm79ceuyd
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 18, 2025
After winning the World Cup in 2022, Messi feels that he has fulfilled his career achievements with all the coveted trophies in his cabinet- eight Ballon d’Or, four Champions League titles, a Copa America and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. On his achievements, he said, “I can’t ask for anything anymore. I’ve won it all. I have the World Cup in Barcelona, stored there along with all my trophies.”
The last time he wore the Argentine jersey was in October last year when he scored a hat-trick against Bolivia in World Cup qualifiers. He will soon turn 38 and will be 39 years old during the 2026 FIFA World Cup that is set to take place in the US, Mexico and Canada.
Return to Barcelona?
Messi’s comments also reignited talks about a potential return to Barcelona, the club where it all began. Messi left Camp Nou in 2021 under emotional circumstances, and many fans have since hoped for a fairy-tale homecoming. He did, in fact, consider a return after leaving PSG. However, he explained that the move didn’t materialise, saying, “I had the intention of returning to Barcelona, but it wasn’t possible again.”
Eventually, he opted for a new chapter with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. Messi said the decision was based on what was best for his family after winning the World Cup. “I didn’t want to be at another team in Europe,” he added.
🎙️Leo Messi on how despite all odds he wanted to return to Barcelona, and how he never meant to choose another club in Europe over Barcelona.
🗣️: “I truly hoped to return to Barcelona, to go back to the club that has always meant so much to me—but once again, it didn’t work… pic.twitter.com/NPsH1MFtVH
— Barça Buzz (@Barca_Buzz) April 18, 2025
The road ahead
As things stand as of now, a return to Barcelona appears unlikely but Messi pulling on the Argentina shirt one last time at the 2026 World Cup remains a real possibility. For fans around the globe, the hope is alive, and even the man himself is taking it one step at a time.
Lionel Messi, winner of eight Ballon d’Or and the 2022 World Cup, considers playing for Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Will he make one last appearance? Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
