Football icon Lionel Messi announces controversial statement regarding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, causing upheaval among organizers
Lionel Messi, the football legend, has expressed uncertainty about his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Speaking to the media following Argentina's victory in Buenos Aires, Messi, who is 38 years old, admitted that he is still swaying towards missing out on the tournament.
Messi, who scored twice in Argentina's 3-0 win over Venezuela on Thursday, stated that his decision will depend on his fitness and form closer to the event. He mentioned that he will have six months left after the pre-season before the World Cup, and he hopes to have a good pre-season in 2026 and finish the MLS season well.
The six-time Ballon d'Or winner began the conversation by stating that because of his age, it is likely he will not play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, he did not make a definitive decision about the tournament yet. Messi reiterated that he prefers not to play if he doesn't feel good, and he will listen to his body following Inter Miami's latest MLS season.
Over 85,000 fans attended the match at Estadio Monumental, with Messi speaking to the media after the game. Messi did not specify whether he will retire from football after the World Cup, but he did confirm that he will not play in La Albiceleste's final CONMEBOL qualifier against Ecuador next week.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place next summer, and Messi's potential participation has been a topic of much discussion among football fans worldwide. Messi's uncertain stance on the tournament adds an air of mystery to his footballing future, but for now, the Argentine superstar is focused on his current commitments with Inter Miami and the MLS season.
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