Friday, December 5, 2025 - Legendary footballer, Lionel Messi, has once again raised doubts about his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a new interview with ESPN on the eve of Friday's
draw in Washington, D.C., the 38-year-old Inter Miami forward hinted that he
could be left out of Argentina's squad as the 2021 world champions bid to
defend their crown.
"I hope I can be there. I've said before that I'd love
to be there," said Messi, who previously said he will play if his body
holds up.
"At worst, I'll be there watching it live, but it will
be special," he added.
"The World Cup is special for everyone, for any country
-- especially for us, because we live it in a completely different way."
Messi, who will lead Inter Miami against the Vancouver
Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final on Saturday, acknowledged that the roster of
talent -- younger talent -- is deep in Argentina and manager Lionel Scaloni
will have tough decisions to make before the World Cup.
"New players keep appearing; aside from the ones
already there, new faces keep coming in," the eight-time Ballon d'Or
winner said. "When a group is like this, it's easier for newcomers to fit
in."
Messi has played in five World Cups for Argentina and holds
the national team records for caps (196) and goals (115).
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