Barcelona and Argentina icon Lionel Messi has discussed his prospects of participating in the 2026 World Cup with the national team, as well as expressing his admiration for Pep Guardiola as the best manager in football. Currently playing for Inter Miami, Messi is gearing up for the Major League Soccer final, aiming for the team’s first MLS Cup against the Vancouver Whitecaps.
Messi, who has indicated that he might consider returning to Barcelona after his playing days are over, remains a poignant figure for the Blaugrana fans, who never had the chance to properly say goodbye to their greatest player. His departure was marred by issues with the management, including a fallout with their legendary coach, Guardiola, who left amid tensions with the board.
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In an interview with ESPN, Messi elaborated on why he regards Guardiola as the finest manager in the game.
“For me, Guardiola is one of a kind. There are many exceptional coaches, but he has something distinct. In my view, he’s the best of them all. The manner in which he perceives the game, prepares for matches, and communicates is unparalleled,” Messi said.
“We were fortunate to have all come together at Barcelona—him and us. He had the pieces he needed to realize his vision, and then went on to continue winning elsewhere. His teams don’t just win; they play with a distinctive style. He achieved great success at Bayern and Manchester City,” Messi added.
“Even though he didn’t claim the Champions League with Bayern, he fundamentally changed the way the game was played in Germany, where a different style was the norm. In England, he had a similar impact… He not only transforms a team but also alters how an entire league approaches football.”
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How Guardiola Enhanced Messi’s Game
The 38-year-old played under Guardiola from the age of 21 to 25, during arguably his most successful period at the club level. Messi shared insights into their evolving relationship.
“From the outset, we had a fantastic rapport. Pep was very approachable, we engaged in a lot of discussions, and I learned immensely from him. I added layers to my game beyond what I had known. I learned so much about movement and spatial awareness with him,” he explained.
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“He was the one who deployed me as a false nine; in Barcelona’s youth setup, I played just behind the striker. That was essentially my position. Even when I debuted under [Frank] Rijkaard and then with Pep, I played as a winger, which wasn’t my natural role. However, I continuously evolved and enriched my game.”
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Messi on his Prospects for the 2026 World Cup
Messi also clarified that he won’t participate in a potential Finalissima between Spain and Argentina in March, as he will be in preseason with Inter Miami and feels he won’t be fit enough to play. However, he disclosed that he has had conversations about the possibility of attending the World Cup with coach Lionel Scaloni.
“We have discussed it candidly. He [Scaloni] is supportive and has expressed that he would like me involved in any capacity. We share a trusting relationship that allows for open dialogue,” Messi said.
“Realistically, having a preseason in between shifts everything for me. It’s akin to starting a new season entirely, and having a sturdy preseason will greatly benefit me, especially compared to European players who arrive at finals already fatigued from numerous matches—except for Qatar, which was unique since it occurred midseason and many felt better due to lower exertion levels.”
Image via BeIn Sports
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Messi concluded by sharing his hope to be part of the tournament. “I genuinely hope I can be there. I’ve mentioned before that I would love to compete. At the very least, I’ll be there as a spectator, but it would be incredibly special. The World Cup holds significance for everyone, particularly for us, as we experience it in a uniquely profound way.”
In September, Messi participated in what many believe was his farewell game for Argentina on home turf. The emotional tribute at El Monumental moved the veteran player to tears. Should Messi make it to the World Cup, it would likely mark his final appearance on the international stage.