Lionel Messi reached the summit of international football when he led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title.
For many players, that would have been the perfect ending. But that’s never been how "La Pulga" operates.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the soon-to-be 39-year-old has not confirmed whether he will suit up for Argentina again.
So will Messi make one final World Cup run — or was 2022 the perfect curtain call?
What prediction markets say about Messi and the 2026 World Cup
Percentages courtesy of Kalshi.
The market currently gives Messi a strong chance of appearing in the 2026 World Cup, reflecting confidence that he’ll remain fit enough to make one final run with Argentina.
While sentiment remains high, any meaningful shift in form, fitness, or public comments could quickly move expectations.
There have also been encouraging signals from within his inner circle. Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano — a longtime teammate at both club and international level — has indicated he expects Messi to be part of Argentina’s plans. It’s not an official confirmation, but it suggests his physical condition is not viewed as a major obstacle at this stage.
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What has Messi said about the 2026 World Cup?
Lionel Messi hasn’t committed to playing in 2026, but he hasn’t closed the door either. Speaking about the tournament, he made it clear the desire is there — as long as his body allows him to contribute at the highest level.
🚨 Leo Messi: “I have so much desire and excitement to be at the World Cup 2026… but I want to go there feeling good myself, I have to make sure I’m ready to contribute at my best”.@AppleTV @433 🎥 https://t.co/1cwCJNyPQ2 pic.twitter.com/kqaCdIpSrw
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 1, 2025
That’s not a retirement signal. It’s a standard. Messi has been consistent: he won’t return for sentiment or ceremony. If he plays, it will be because he believes he can impact matches — not simply occupy a roster spot.
That framing shifts the debate from motivation to match sharpness. The question isn’t whether he wants to go. It’s whether he feels physically prepared to compete deep into another tournament run.
How old will Messi be at the 2026 World Cup?
Lionel Messi was born on June 24, 1987, meaning he will be 38 years old when Argentina opens its 2026 World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 16. He will turn 39 eight days later, during the tournament.
Even at that age, Messi would not rank among the 10 oldest players ever to appear in a World Cup match. While durability becomes a bigger storyline late in a career, his vision, technical ability, and game intelligence remain among the elite.
Where Messi fits in Argentina's 2026 plans
La Albiceleste would love to have Lionel Messi back for one more World Cup, but this won’t look like 2022. At 38, turning 39, managing his minutes becomes part of the plan.
Lionel Scaloni has more young talent around him now, which gives Argentina options. That means Messi doesn’t have to carry every match from start to finish. He can pick his spots, control tempo when it matters, and take over in key moments, especially in the knockout rounds.
Scaloni has consistently kept the door open for Messi, and the two have maintained ongoing dialogue about his role. If Messi gives the physical green light, selection would not be in doubt — only how he’s used.
La Pulga may not play every minute, but when he’s on the field, the Argentina attack still runs through him.
Lionel Messi World Cup FAQ
Messi has not officially confirmed whether he will play in the 2026 World Cup. He has said he has the desire to participate but will only do so if he feels physically ready to contribute at his best.
Messi will be 38 years old when Argentina begins the 2026 World Cup and will turn 39 during the tournament on June 24, 2026.
No. Messi has not announced his retirement from international football. While he has reduced his workload in recent years, he remains available for Argentina.
Argentina’s opening match of the 2026 World Cup is scheduled for June 16 against Algeria.
