Inter Miami CF’s captain, Lionel Messi, is considering the possibility of defending Argentina’s FIFA World Cup title in the upcoming tournament in 2026, but he has not made a definitive decision about his participation.
For now, Messi, one of the world’s leading footballers, is taking a cautious approach, stating he will only compete if he is in perfect health and able to make a significant contribution to his national team.
“Being part of a World Cup is a remarkable experience,” Messi expressed in an interview with NBC News aired on Monday. “I want to be there, fit and ready to support my national team if I make the squad.”
“I’ll evaluate my situation daily when I start preseason with Inter [Miami] next year and see if I can truly achieve full fitness. I’m very eager, especially after our last World Cup victory. Defending our title on the pitch would be incredible, as it’s always a dream to represent the national team in official tournaments. I hope to have that chance again.”
Messi has consistently stated that he will wait to finalize his decision regarding the World Cup, mentioning during the September international window, “we’ll see,” emphasizing that his participation hinges on his physical condition.
“I’m focused on feeling good and being honest with myself. When I’m feeling well, I enjoy playing, but when I don’t, it’s not enjoyable, so I’d rather step back if I’m not up to it,” Messi remarked after a World Cup qualifying victory over Venezuela in September. “I haven’t decided about the World Cup yet. I’ll finish the season, then start preseason, and there’s still six months to go. It will depend on how I feel later.”
“I’m hoping for a solid preseason in 2026 and a strong finish to this MLS season, and then I’ll make my decision.”
Throughout the 2025 season, Messi has been a key figure for Inter Miami, participating in various competitions including MLS, Leagues Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup, and the Club World Cup. He recently secured the 2025 MLS Golden Boot with 29 goals in 28 regular season matches, marking his first time winning this accolade since joining Miami in 2023.
Additionally, he is in the running for the 2025 MLS MVP award for his outstanding contributions to the team. Should he win, Messi would make history as the first player to claim the MVP title in two consecutive seasons.
Messi has also just signed a new three-year contract with Inter Miami, extending his stay through the conclusion of the 2028 MLS season. Read more here.
“I’ve always indicated that my decision about continuing to play will be based on how I feel each day, both physically and mentally,” Messi conveyed to NBC. “This past year, I’ve felt really good. My family and I are happy living in Miami, which made the decision straightforward.”
Inter Miami is currently preparing to compete against Nashville SC this Saturday in the second match of their best-of-three playoff series. The Herons hold a 1-0 lead in the series after defeating Nashville at Chase Stadium, with Messi scoring two goals and Tadeo Allende adding another.