Lionel Messi's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, remains a topic of considerable speculation and excitement. At 38 years old, the Argentinian superstar is approaching the twilight of his illustrious career, yet his influence on the pitch remains undeniable.
Argentina, led by Messi, has already secured its place in the 2026 World Cup after a strong performance in the South American qualifiers. The team finished top of the CONMEBOL qualification table, securing 38 points across 18 matches. The World Cup draw has placed Argentina in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. They will debut on June 16th against Algeria in Kansas City, followed by a match against Austria on June 22nd in Dallas, and conclude the group stage against Jordan on June 27th, also in Dallas.
When asked about his plans for the 2026 World Cup, Messi has adopted a cautious yet optimistic tone. In a recent interview with ESPN Argentina, he stated, "I'm going to take it one day at a time; being honest and trying to be realistic and feel good. This year I felt very good". He acknowledged that the tournament's location in the United States, where he currently plays for Inter Miami, makes participation more appealing. "It catches us at a different point in the season than in Europe," Messi noted, referring to the scheduling challenges with the MLS season and the CONCACAF Champions League.
Despite not making any firm commitments, Messi has expressed his desire to be involved in the tournament. "I hope I can be there. I've said before that I'd love to be there," he told ESPN. Even if he doesn't play, Messi hinted at still being present, stating, "At worst, I'll be there watching it live, but it will be special".
Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, is keen on having Messi in the squad and values his input. Messi mentioned that he has regular conversations with Scaloni about his potential role, saying, "He always tells me that he'd like me to be in whatever position I'm assigned. We have a very trusting relationship, and we can talk about everything".
If Messi participates in the 2026 World Cup, he and Cristiano Ronaldo, should he also play for Portugal, would surpass the record of Germany's Lothar Matthäus by appearing in six editions of the tournament.
While Messi acknowledges Argentina as one of the favorites, he also recognizes the strength of other teams. In his view, nations like Spain, France, England, Brazil, and Germany pose significant threats. Notably, he did not include Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal among his top contenders. Oddsmakers, however, consider Spain and England as the top favorites, with Argentina in the top five.
For fans in North Texas, there's a high possibility to see Messi in person, as Argentina is scheduled to play two group matches at Arlington's AT&T Stadium. The stadium, referred to as Dallas Stadium for the event, is set to host a total of nine matches, including a semifinal. Argentina will face Austria and Jordan in Dallas.
As the tournament approaches, the question of whether Messi will grace the field remains open. His participation will depend on his physical condition and how he feels closer to the tournament. For now, fans can anticipate the possibility of witnessing Messi's magic on the World Cup stage once again.
