Lionel Messi's 2026 World Cup Ambitions: Exploring the Possibility of Another Tournament Appearance.
  • 495 views
  • 2 min read

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the question on many fans' minds is: Will Lionel Messi participate? At 38 years old, Messi's contract with Inter Miami runs until the end of 2025, leading to speculation about his next move and his readiness for the World Cup.

Messi's current focus is with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS). However, recent reports suggest he might be considering a move to a more competitive league to better prepare for the World Cup. This comes after Inter Miami's defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup. According to ESPN Argentina's Esteban Edul, Messi was initially inclined to renew his contract with Inter Miami, but those talks have now stalled.

Several possibilities are being discussed. One option is a return to FC Barcelona. Messi has reportedly expressed a desire to return to Barcelona after his time in Miami, stating that it is "home" for him. A potential short-term deal, perhaps six months from January to June 2026, could allow him to play at a high level and prepare for the World Cup while also serving as a tribute to his legacy at Barcelona. This move could coincide with the reopening of the renovated Camp Nou. However, some reports suggest that a return to Barcelona is unlikely due to his fractured relationship with the club's board.

Another possibility is a move to another, more competitive league in Europe. This would provide him with the higher level of competition he desires leading up to the World Cup.

Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, believes there is plenty of time to decide about Messi's future in international football. Messi has participated in the qualification process for the World Cup, although injuries have kept him out of some matches.

Inter Miami remains interested in retaining Messi, with sources stating that both parties are keen to continue their relationship. The club is reportedly taking steps to make it happen.

Ultimately, the decision rests with Messi. His performance, fitness, and desire will be the determining factors.


Writer - Kabir Verma
Thoughtful, analytical, and with a passion for sports, Kabir is drawn to in-depth reporting and exploring complex social issues within his region. He's currently developing research skills, learning to synthesize information from various sources for comprehensive, nuanced articles. Kabir, also an avid sports enthusiast, believes in the power of long-form journalism to provide a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing his community.
Advertisement

Latest Post


The World University Games (WUG) in the Rhine-Ruhr region of Germany witnessed a promising start for the Indian contingent, with badminton players displaying dominance and swimmer Rohit Benedicton shattering a national record. Indian shuttlers began...
  • 431 views
  • 2 min

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reported a substantial revenue of ₹9,741. 7 crore for the financial year 2023-24. A significant portion of this income, ₹5,761 crore, came from the Indian Premier League (IPL), which accounted for 5...
  • 470 views
  • 2 min

The Toronto Maple Leafs might have the ideal trade chip to initiate discussions with the Columbus Blue Jackets regarding Yegor Chinakhov, who has officially requested a trade. Chinakhov's agent publicly announced his client's desire to move to a new ...
  • 428 views
  • 2 min

Caitlin Clark's recent groin injury, sustained during a game against the Connecticut Sun, has sparked concerns and renewed debate about the Indiana Fever's coaching strategies and the physical treatment she endures on the court. The injury, which occ...
  • 450 views
  • 2 min

Advertisement
The UEFA Women's Euro 2025 is underway in Switzerland, and all eyes are on the quarter-final clash between Sweden and England. The match is scheduled for today, July 17, 2025, at 21:00 CET (8 PM UK time) at the Stadion Letzigrund in Zurich. **The St...
  • 227 views
  • 2 min

Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has undergone surgery to address a recurring left shoulder dislocation that has plagued him since November 2023. The surgery, confirmed by Real Madrid in an official statement, was performed by Drs. Manuel Leyes...
  • 521 views
  • 1 min

The Indian men's hockey team's performance in the recent FIH Pro League has prompted introspection and a renewed focus on preparation for upcoming major tournaments. According to veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, the experience served as a valuable "wa...
  • 254 views
  • 2 min

A video clip showing a group of people with dwarfism arriving at Barcelona star Lamine Yamal's 18th birthday party has ignited a controversy, prompting a legal investigation and sparking debate about discrimination and the rights of entertainers. Ya...
  • 529 views
  • 2 min

Advertisement
About   •   Terms   •   Privacy
© 2025 SportsBuzz360