FIFA W’CUP 2026: Messi Reveals Condition To Play For Argentina

FIFA W’CUP 2026: Messi Reveals Condition To Play For Argentina

Inter Miami captain, Lionel Messi, has disclosed the only condition that would see him represent Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup scheduled to hold across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The 38-year-old football icon said he would only feature in the tournament if he remains physically fit and in good form, stressing that he does not want to be a burden to the national team.

Messi, who inspired Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar 2022 after defeating France in the final, is expected by many fans to lead the team again in North America.

If he makes the squad, Messi will join Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the only two players to have appeared in six World Cups.

In an interview with Sport, the Argentine legend said his decision to play in 2026 will depend entirely on his fitness and readiness at the time.

The Argentine superstar said, “Yes, obviously yes, it is a special World Cup, it is special to play with the national team and more important, official competitions and more what a World Cup means and after having won it too.

“But a little bit what I was telling you, I don’t want to be a burden in quotes, I want to feel good physically, be sure that I can help and contribute things to the group, to the squad.

“Our season is different from Europe. We are going to have a preseason involved, a few games until we reach the World Cup date and see on a day-to-day basis if I really feel good physically to be the way I would like to be and be able to participate.”