Lionel Messi has spoken about the possibility of playing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, revealing what it would depend on.
The Argentine and his side emerged victorious at the global showpiece in 2022, with the Inter Miami star playing a key role in helping his side lift the trophy for the first time since 1986.
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The former Barcelona star's success with the national team continued when he led the side to a 2024 Copa America triumph, despite having to watch the remainder of the final against Colombia after he was forced off the pitch with an ankle injury.
As La Albiceleste look to qualify and defend their status as world champions at the next WC set to be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the 37-year-old spoke about his chances of being present.
"The truth is that I don't know, I've been asked several times, especially in Argentina," the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner said while speaking to 433 per Sportskeeda.
"I hope to have a good end of the season and then a good pre-season, something I didn't have last season because of all the traveling we did.
"From there, I want to see what happens, to realize how I feel. In football, a lot of things always happen.
"There is still a long way to go, so I'm not thinking too much about it.
"I'm going to live day to day without thinking too much about the future."
Whether or not he plays a role at the 2026 WC as a player, the former Paris Saint-Germain player admitted that his biggest dream has already come true.
"Let people remember me as they want," Messi continued.
"I am very grateful for my career and for having achieved everything I have thanks to God.
"My biggest dream was to win the World Cup, which I fought for a long time and which cost me a lot of effort.
"I have been lucky enough to win everything with Barcelona, with the national team, and to have a wonderful life and family, so I am very grateful to God for everything I have been through, and I will let people remember me as they want."
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By Junaid Benjamin
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