Will Lionel Messi Play In The 2026 World Cup? Teammate's Prediction

David

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Post on Sep 18, 2025

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Will Lionel Messi Play in the 2026 World Cup? A Teammate's Bold Prediction

The world is still buzzing from Argentina's triumphant 2022 World Cup victory, a victory largely orchestrated by the magic of Lionel Messi. But with the 2026 tournament looming, the question on everyone's lips is: will the GOAT grace the pitch once more? Recent comments from a close teammate offer a surprising – and exciting – prediction.

The speculation surrounding Messi's future in international football has been rampant since the exhilarating final whistle in Qatar. At 36, many believed his legendary career with the Albiceleste had concluded on the highest possible note. However, his stunning performance in the World Cup, coupled with his continued brilliance at Paris Saint-Germain, has fueled hopes of another appearance on the world stage.

A Teammate Weighs In:

Adding fuel to the fire, Ángel Di María, Messi's long-time teammate and fellow World Cup champion, recently hinted at the possibility of Messi playing in the 2026 World Cup. While not explicitly confirming Messi's participation, Di María's comments suggest a strong belief that the legendary forward could continue his international career. He stated (paraphrased), "Leo's passion for the game is unmatched. If he feels like he can still contribute at the highest level, he'll be there." This statement, delivered with a knowing smile, has sent ripples of excitement through the footballing world.

Analyzing the Possibilities:

Several factors will influence Messi's decision. His physical condition, of course, will be paramount. Messi has always prioritized maintaining peak fitness, a testament to his dedication and professionalism. However, the relentless demands of professional football at the highest level take their toll, even on a player of his caliber.

Beyond physical fitness, Messi's desire and motivation will play a crucial role. Having achieved his lifelong dream of winning the World Cup, the allure of another campaign might be less intense. However, the chance to cement his legacy further, to become the only player to win multiple World Cups, could be a powerful motivator.

The 2026 World Cup: A Unique Challenge:

The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The expanded format, with 48 teams, promises a more unpredictable tournament, increasing the chances of upsets. This could influence Messi's decision; a more competitive landscape might tempt him to lead Argentina's charge once more.

Conclusion: Hope Remains Alive

While nothing is certain, Di María's comments offer a glimmer of hope for fans around the globe. The possibility of seeing Messi compete in another World Cup, especially given his recent triumph, is incredibly exciting. The coming years will be crucial in determining Messi's ultimate decision. However, one thing is clear: the legend of Lionel Messi continues to captivate us all. Until he officially announces his retirement from international football, the dream remains alive. Keep an eye out for further updates as the countdown to 2026 begins.

Keywords: Lionel Messi, World Cup 2026, Argentina National Team, Ángel Di María, Football, Soccer, GOAT, FIFA World Cup, International Football, Messi Retirement, 2022 World Cup Winner

Related Articles: (Internal links – these would link to other articles on your site, if you had them)

• Messi's Legacy: A Look Back at His Incredible Career
• The 2026 World Cup: A Preview of the Expanded Tournament

External Links: (Links to reputable sources – examples only)

• [Link to FIFA's official website about the 2026 World Cup]
• [Link to a reputable sports news outlet]